We’re counting down the hours until England bid for a place in the FIFA World Cup final.
Argentina awaits in the semi-final in Atlanta tonight but 8 years ago, it was Croatia who stood between the Three Lions and a chance to lift the trophy.
We delved into the Shields Gazette archives to find out what was making the news headlines in 2018.
Among the stories was one from the seafront where Pixie Lott led South Tynesiders in a rendition of ‘It’s Coming Home’.
Elsewhere, youngsters (including one in a football shirt with Messi on the back) were practising yoga at Little Acorns Nursery.
And it was all change at a Victorian pub which was about to get a £200,000 makeover.
There’s much more besides and you can find out more by browsing through our collection of Shields Gazette photo memories.
5. Colin's wood-be charity venture
Colin Laughton, from Whitburn, was one of 80 woodturners in a unique charity initiative where their handmade goods sold on the internet. The craftsman produced a range of wooden items such as bowls, jars and vases on a lathe. | sg
6. Tunnel delay revealed
Work to reopen the Tyne Pedestrian and Cyclist Tunnels looked set to face further delays. It was hit by a number of setbacks since a decision to renovate it was made 10 years earlier - with costs up to £15.65m. | sg
7. Bollywood comes to South Tyneside
Bollywood was set to meet Irish dance and musical theatre as performers from across the borough, and further afield, showed off their talents at the annual Hindu Nari Sangh summer event. | sg
8. Teddy time in South Tyneside
The newest residents in South Tyneside were given an extra special birthday present. All babies born at South Tyneside Hospital got a little Teddy to mark the 70th anniversary of The League of Friends. | sg