Relief finally came with around 20 minutes to go.
A ripple of "One-nil to the Sweden" gathered pace and it became clear that only a disaster could now halt England's progression.
At that point the occasion lost all sense of drama.
Any energy which had not yet been sapped by the dense humidity was spent on mocking Argentina's demise rather than cheering on the boys in red.
Chants of "Cheer up Maradona" and "You`re not favourites any more" sparked up.
But all in all it was a case of after the Lord Mayor's show.
Lacking all the blood and thunder of the Argentina game in Sapporo, there was also no chance for any banter with opposing fans.
With Nigeria's fate already sealed, their following was limited to a tiny gathering stationed high in the corner of one stand.
The venue too was the most disappointing of the three that England supporters have visited.
The running track which bordered the pitch also served as a reminder of the worst aspects of Wembley.
At the final whistle, the reaction from the fans was mixed.
There were grumblings of discontent from some - eager to remind the players that thousands of pounds have been spent and just as many miles travelled to watch them perform.
Others were merely happy to revel in the fact that the World Cup dream can continue for at least a few more days.
From them, the cheer was `We`re not coming home`.
However, a similar performance against Denmark could yet mean Niigata is the last port of call for all.
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