How England fans have actually surprised FIFA chiefs and US police so far during 2026 World Cup

England supporters have made a strong impression both on and off the pitch during the opening week of the 2026 World Cup, with FIFA officials and local police reportedly delighted by the atmosphere they created in Dallas.

Despite long-standing concerns around fan behaviour at major tournaments, the experience in Texas appears to have exceeded expectations.

England supporters winning over locals in the United States

Around 15,000 England fans travelled to Dallas for the Three Lions' opening 4-2 victory over Croatia, but officials believe the support inside the stadium was boosted significantly by American fans adopting England as their team for the tournament.

Large numbers of supporters wearing England shirts and cheering on Thomas Tuchel's side were noticeable throughout AT&T Stadium, helping create what many described as a home-game atmosphere despite being thousands of miles from Wembley.

Perhaps most significantly, Arlington Police reportedly recorded zero arrests involving England supporters during the match and the surrounding events, according to the Daily Mail.

Local authorities were said to be impressed by the behaviour of travelling fans, who brought plenty of noise and colour to the city while largely avoiding the kind of trouble that some had feared before the tournament.

The Football Association has also been encouraged by the level of support, especially given concerns that FIFA's controversial ticket pricing structure might reduce travelling numbers.

Attention now turns to Boston and New York, where even larger travelling contingents are expected for England's remaining group-stage fixtures.

FGG says: A welcome surprise for England fans

It's fair to say there were plenty of doubts before the tournament about how England supporters would be portrayed in the US.

Instead, the early signs have been overwhelmingly positive. Large crowds, a fantastic atmosphere and, crucially, no significant trouble is exactly what organisers, police and England fans themselves would have hoped for.

If anything, it helps erase some of the pre-tournament concerns and shows that thousands of supporters have travelled to North America simply to enjoy the World Cup and back their team.

Long may it continue.