England have advanced to their fourth men's World Cup semi-final, setting up a clash with fierce rivals Argentina on Wednesday night in Atlanta, Georgia. The match is expected to draw over 20 million viewers on the BBC, many of whom may be new to following England in tournaments. The article, written by Lawrence Ostlere, serves as a guide for newcomers, warning them of the emotional rollercoaster that defines England's World Cup journey. It highlights the team's history of painful knockout exits, from Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" in 1986 to penalty shootout losses in 1990 and 1998, and the extra-time defeat to Croatia in 2018. The rivalry with Argentina is particularly charged, rooted in political history and infamous on-field incidents, including David Beckham's red card in 1998. The article emphasizes that England's defeats are rarely straightforward, often involving controversial decisions, freakish moments, or fine margins. It describes the experience of supporting England as a form of grief, where hope leads to inevitable heartbreak. The piece concludes by welcoming new fans to the tournament, acknowledging the joy and pain that come with it, and reminding them that following England is ultimately an exercise in agony.