It was the highlight of the World Cup for those who viewed the tournament through English eyes.
England beating Argentina.
It was memorable for the delight on David Beckham's face after his winning penalty, and the mischief of Teddy Sheringham as he made up for four years of frustration by gleefully rubbing Argentine noses in the dirt.
And it was remembered for arguably the most memorable incident of all, when the Press Association's popular England reporter, John Curtis, mistakenly strolled on to a team bus full of disgruntled Argentine players.
Argentina, already unhappy at receiving what might politely be termed a "send off" from certain sections of the English media, did not find their mood improved by Curtis' classic line: "Sorry Gabriel son - this is the press bus, so get off."
Osaka's only worthwhile memory was the oppressive heat as England drew with Nigeria, but it was the Japanese who celebrated before Eriksson's men when we moved on to Niigata and the last 16 game against Denmark.
Niigata's Toei Hotel was alive with sober-suited businessmen, who suddenly exploded into animation when Japan beat Tunisia.