A lone Argentina supporter was surrounded by angry England fans in central London after the Three Lions crashed out of the World Cup.
Footage filmed in Piccadilly Circus shows dozens of England supporters crowding the fan before Metropolitan Police officers are forced to step in to escort him away from the tense scene.
The footage was captured by content creator Syed Sibtain Ali, who told Need To Know: “The mood around central London’s Piccadilly Circus was pure disappointment.
READ MORE: Council spotted tearing down England flags ahead of World Cup
“English fans were absolutely gutted after the loss.
“But credit to the police. They were highly professional, swift and decisive.
“The moment any tension stirred or any Argentinian fans moved through, officers stepped in immediately and contained the situation without hesitation.
“Their rapid response ensured no major law and order issue escalated on their watch.
“Given the high emotions and the volume of people packed into the area they handled the ground operation remarkably well.”
Syed shared videos to his Instagram @SibtainViews, where England fans have been slammed for their “shameful” behaviour.
Supporters had packed into central London to watch the blockbuster clash before disappointment spilled onto the streets after the final whistle.
In the footage, the Argentina fan appears to be surrounded by chanting England supporters as police officers quickly move in, forming a protective barrier before leading him away.
One person wrote: “That’s wrong! Why attack a random boy because he’s supporting another team! Please grow up.”
Someone else said: “Just as we thought…. Ridiculous behaviour.”
A third person added: “I hate that England lost the match but this is not ok.”
Someone else added: “Shameful act by the fans.”
Others were relieved the incident did not become more serious, with one viewer writing: “Bro is very lucky.”
In a separate incident, also shared online, England supporters can be seen surrounding a police van, moments after a lone Argentinian fan was rescued from a mob of supporters.
The country’s hopes of ending 60 years of hurt were dashed last night after Thomas Tuchel’s side suffered a painful semi-final defeat to Argentina.
The loss means England’s wait for a major trophy continues, with the men’s team still searching for their first piece of major silverware since winning the 1966 World Cup on home soil.
READ MORE: Mini tornado whips over car park as Britain’s scorching summer continues
