England were beaten on penalties by the Azzurri at Wembley.
But that won’t dent the belief of this talented squad.
As they get ready to try to achieve their wildest dreams, see if you can recognise each wide-eyed youngster that will star for England in the winter.
AARON RAMSDALE
The Arsenal stopper is fourth from the left on the top row, and looks like he needed to do some growingCredit: InstagramAaron Ramsdale made his England debut against San MarinoCredit: EPA
TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD
Trent Alexander-Arnold was always going to be a star at LiverpoolCredit: InstagramThe Reds ace is one of a number of top quality right-backs at England’s disposalCredit: Getty
JOHN STONES
John Stones in action for Barnsley’s Under-9sCredit: Ben LackThe Yorkshireman is now a key figure for the Three Lions and shone at the EurosCredit: Getty
HARRY MAGUIRE
Harry Maguire, left, shows his cheeky side as a kidCredit: InstagramAnd the Man United star served up this cheeky celebration last year as he hit back at his criticsCredit: Reuters
LUKE SHAW
Luke Shaw smiles for the camera as a youngsterCredit: InstagramAnd the left-back had the whole country smiling after scoring a dream goal in the Euro 2020 finalCredit: Getty
MASON MOUNT
A young Mason Mount grins as he watches the tellyCredit: InstagramThe Chelsea star serves up the same smile as he plays for EnglandCredit: AFP
JACK GREALISH
England favourite Jack Grealish poses with his dad ahead of a Villa youth gameCredit: InstagramThe barnet might be different, but Grealish’s boyish enthusiasm for the game remains and has made him a hit with fansCredit: Reuters
RAHEEM STERLING
The Manchester City ace has always been a winnerCredit: InstagramHe is now a key man for England and will be hoping to pick up a trophy with them in DecemberCredit: Rex
PHIL FODEN
Phil Foden had a similar hairdo as a kid while he was surging through the Man City ranksCredit: InstagramThe England starlet is becoming undroppable for club and countryCredit: PA
HARRY KANE
Harry Kane, left, is pictured as a youngster alongside his parents and brother CharlieCredit: InstagramThe Tottenham star is now England captain and idolised by children – and parents – throughout the countryCredit: Marc Aspland – The Times
MARCUS RASHFORD
Marcus Rashford smiles for the camera as a youngsterCredit: InstagramRashford will hopefully be smiling come December 18 after England have won the World CupCredit: AFP