Thanks to the hand of Pickford the England dream lives on.

But how different it could all have been without the Daily Telegraph.

They were the ones who brought down former England boss Sam Allardyce who would have led our current campaign.

Imagine Big Sam in charge in Russia rather than Gareth Southgate.

Wayne Rooney would still be huffing and puffing away as a defence-minded team reverted back to long balls and set pieces in a bid to grind out 1-0 wins.

Whatever happens in the coming days Southgate and his young team have been a breath of fresh air.

The draw fell their way but they have seized their chance and now have a shot at making history.

Betting Spy picked seven out of eight in the last round so who will make the semis?

France v Uruguay

Everyone is eulogising about France after one decent performance against one of the most dysfunctional sides to limp through to the knockout stages. And they still conceded three against Argentina. Life won’t be so easy against a battle-hardened Uruguay who look massively over-priced to win at 7/2. Uruguay to win 2-1.

Brazil v Belgium

Could be a belter. Belgium manager Roberto Martinez went from tactical muppet to magician with his substitutes saving him against Japan. But their shape seems all wrong still to me while the defence has huge gaps down the flanks which will be an open invite to their opponents. Brazil to win 3-1.

Sweden v England

This will be like us taking on a Big Sam side. The Swedes will be compact and look to hurt us on the break and at set pieces. They will create chances but luckily their finishing is more comical than clinical. It will be another nervous afternoon but England to nick it in extra time after a 1-1 draw at 90 minutes.

Russia v Croatia

A couple of forward passes among the blizzard of crab-like sideways shuffling of Spain would have seen them ease past Russia. But the hosts made it through with another dogged defensive display. This is where their dream dies with Croatia having too much for them all over the park. Modric and Rakatic can pass all day, and attack, which will be too much for the Russians. Croatia to win 3-1.

Betting Spy has joined forces with Paddy Power to offer all readers a £20 risk-free bet when they open an account. Just click on the link below to visit construction’s favourite bookmaker for full terms and conditions and discover how to set-up an online, telephone or mobile account