England finally end ITV ‘curse’ with stunning 3-0 win over Senegal in World Cup 2022 last-16 clash… but France are next
ENGLAND fans are rejoicing after their win over Senegal ended the ITV curse - but they face an even bigger test on the same channel on Saturday.
The Three Lions have long struggled in major tournaments when being broadcast on the BBC's rival channel.
Before last night's sensational win, England had not won any of their last 10 matches in normal time broadcast on ITV.
Their win percentage on the channel was also significantly lower on ITV compared to when games were shown on the BBC.
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It appeared as though that theme was continuing this season with a dreary goalless draw on ITV sandwiched in between two stunning group stage wins on the BBC.
But now it appears the curse is broken with England dismantling Senegal yesterday after a difficult opening 30 minutes.
The curse faces it's biggest test next though as the quarter-final against France is also set to take place on Britain's second biggest TV station.
For now though fans are simply happy that the curse did not derail the nation's journey in the knock-outs at the first hurdle.
One fan on Twitter wrote: "The ITV curse is broken! We are so back."
Another added: "I take it England have broken the ITV curse and dare I say it's coming....."
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While a slightly more wary fan said: "Woo hoo a sigh of relief that the ITV Curse is broken... then you realise the England v France game is on ITV. Oh for fu...."
The Three Lions got their win after goals from Jordan Henderson, Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka.
But even while ignoring the broadcaster, England have their work cut out in the next round against France.
The World Cup holders beat Poland in their last-16 tie with superstar Kylian Mbappe in menacing form.
England are looking to reach their second semi in a row following their last four clash with Croatia in 2018.