Imagine seeing “Winning Match” flash across your lottery app — and thinking your life just changed forever.

For Rachel Kennedy and Liam McCrohan, both in their early twenties, that dream turned into heartbreak within minutes. The Hertfordshire couple believed they had just won $216 million on the EuroMillions — one of the biggest jackpots in history.

Rachel recalled, “I went on the app and it said ‘Winning Match.’ I called my mum and boyfriend — we couldn’t believe it.” The couple celebrated wildly, already picturing a future of luxury, travel, and freedom. But their joy was short-lived.

When Rachel called the National Lottery, she was told something that left her stunned. Despite having the winning numbers — 6, 12, 22, 29, 33, 6, and 11 — the payment for her ticket had failed. There wasn’t enough money in her account when the numbers were drawn.

“I thought I’d won,” Rachel said, “but Liam was actually more upset than I was.” He admitted, “I’d already spent it in my head.”

The National Lottery later wished them luck in future draws — but for Rachel and Liam, it was a once-in-a-lifetime lesson about fate, timing, and how one small detail can change everything.