In a scintillating start to Euro 2024, Jude Bellingham inspired England to a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Serbia in Gelsenkirchen. The young midfielder’s decisive goal and remarkable performance underscored his growing reputation as England’s new football superstar.
Fresh off a dream season that saw him clinch a Champions League title with Real Madrid, Bellingham continued to showcase his prodigious talent.
Just 13 minutes into the game, he connected with a deflected cross from Bukayo Saka, leaping to deliver a powerful header that sailed past the Serbian goalkeeper.
This early goal set the tone for Gareth Southgate’s side, who were keen to make a strong impression in their opening match.
The decision to start Liverpool’s versatile Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield paid off initially, as England dominated possession and created several scoring opportunities.
However, after taking the lead, England’s intensity waned, and they began to adopt a more conservative approach. This tactical shift allowed Serbia to gain momentum and apply pressure on England’s defense.
Despite Serbia’s increasing threat, England’s defense, marshaled by Harry Maguire and John Stones, held firm. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made a crucial save late in the game, denying Serbian striker Dusan Vlahovic a potential equalizer. Pickford’s reflexes and composure were pivotal in maintaining England’s slim lead.
Harry Kane, England’s talismanic captain, nearly extended the lead when he connected with a header from substitute Jarrod Bowen’s cross. Serbian goalkeeper Predrag Rajkovic showcased his shot-stopping abilities, tipping Kane’s effort onto the crossbar in a moment that had England fans on the edge of their seats.
While England’s second-half performance highlighted some areas for improvement, particularly in maintaining their attacking momentum and avoiding defensive complacency, the victory provided a crucial morale boost. The team will look to build on this result as they prepare for their second Group C match against Denmark on Thursday.
Bellingham’s standout performance not only secured three points for England but also cemented his status as a key player for the national team. His ability to influence the game in both attack and defense was evident throughout the match, making him a vital asset for Gareth Southgate.
As England moves forward in Euro 2024, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see if Bellingham can continue to deliver such impactful performances. With the team’s confidence bolstered by this opening win, England aims to refine their strategy and improve their execution in the upcoming matches, starting with a challenging encounter against Denmark.