It was not to be for England as they lost 2-1 to Croatia after extra time to miss out on reaching their World Cup final since 1966.
Kieran Trippier curled in an excellent free-kick to put Gareth Southgate's side ahead before Ivan Perisic equalised and Mario Mandzukic scored an extra-time winner.
But which England players impressed against Croatia? And who had an evening to forget?
This is chief football writer Phil McNulty's verdict from Russia, along with the ratings you provided on our player rater.
No blame attached to him and a wonderfully courageous save from Mandzukic kept England on terms before the winner.
Your rating: 7.32
Distinguished himself again and scored a brilliant goal. What a World Cup he has had.
Your rating: 7.47
'Pinpoint' Trippier free-kick gives England early lead
Mixed bag here. Some key interceptions but was beaten by Perisic for Croatia's equaliser.
Your rating: 6.22
Mandzukic reacted slightly quicker for the winner and that was cruel on a player who was magnificent otherwise.
Your rating: 6.29
Another solid night and willing to bring the ball out of defence. Has had a top-class World Cup.
Your rating: 6.55
Had a tough night as Croatia placed him under pressure.
Your rating: 5.30
Tired legs appeared to take their toll but can take great credit from his tournament.
Your rating: 6.00
Was back in subdued mode and could exert no influence.
Your rating: 5.37
Another who looked short of his usual energy.
Your rating: 5.84
Superb first half. Faded but a little surprising he was substituted.
Your rating: 5.59
Looked tired and out of sorts all night and missed a great chance.
Your rating: 5.11
Marcus Rashford (for Raheem Sterling, 74 mins): Tried manfully to inject fresh legs into England's fading effort. 6
Your rating: 5.54
Danny Rose (for Ashley Young, 90 mins): Some dangerous runs but England were on the back foot when he came on. 5
Your rating: 5.65
Eric Dier (for Jordan Henderson, 97 mins): No real influence. 5
Your rating: 5.24
Jamie Vardy (for Kyle Walker, 112 mins): On in desperation but to no avail. 5
Your rating: 4.50
Player of the match
Kieran Trippier
6.49
6.47
6.03
5.95
5.52
5.49
5.47
5.34
5.31
5.27
5.27
5.27
5.17
5.16
5.10