John Terry insists England have learnt from past mistakes and are ready to challenge for global glory.
The Three Lions head to South Africa this summer looking to bring an end to 44 years of international heartache.
Not since 1966 have England lifted a major trophy, but that is something the current crop of stars are determined to put right.
Penalty heartache has hindered their cause in recent tournaments, with Portugal putting them to the sword at Euro 2004 and the 2006 World Cup.
Terry admits those setbacks were difficult to stomach, but is adamant the experiences have made the England squad stronger and all the more determined to achieve success.
"I've never been afraid to show my emotions on the pitch and I'm not ashamed to admit I was in tears after that game (against Portugal in 2006), along with quite a few other England players," Terry told The Sun.
"Even though we hadn't played particularly well, I felt we had a really good chance at 2006.
"We could sense the whole nation was behind us and when we went out like that I felt we'd let everyone down.
"People keep talking about England losing on penalties and all I can say is that most of the players in this squad have lived through those mistakes and learned from them.
"We know that whatever happens in South Africa, we can never feel any worse than we did in Germany.
"And now we have to use that experience to put things right."
Terry is also aware that this summer's showpiece is likely to be the last time a number of England's top stars are able to grace the world stage.
With that in mind, he believes the majority of the side will be desperate to bow out on a high.
Terry added: "For me, Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand, Stevie Gerrard and David James, this could be our last chance to play at the World Cup.
"I am 29, so I'd like to think I've got another one in me. But I can't take that for granted.
"So I'll approach this World Cup like I do every match - I'll play like it's my last game.
"That way, if I should get an injury and never play again, I would be able to look everyone straight in the eye and know I'd given it my absolute everything. And no one could ever question that."
