Jude Bellingham inspired England to the start they wanted at Euro 2024, scoring the winning goal and delivering a stunning individual performance in their victory over Serbia in Gelsenkirchen.
Bellingham’s dream season—capped by a Champions League triumph in his first campaign with Real Madrid—continued as he showed why he is regarded as England’s new superstar. The 20-year-old scored a magnificent header from Bukayo Saka’s deflected cross after 13 minutes, rewarding Gareth Southgate’s side for an impressive start.
England, featuring Liverpool full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield, fell back into old habits after the break, sitting back and allowing Serbia to apply pressure. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made an important late save from Dusan Vlahovic.
Harry Kane nearly added a second for England when his header from substitute Jarrod Bowen’s cross was superbly touched onto the bar by Serbia keeper Predrag Rajkovic.
Although England will need to improve, this result will send them into their second Group C game against Denmark on Thursday with confidence.
Bellingham justifies the hype
Bellingham’s commanding display, blending natural talent with a touch of quality and confidence, vividly demonstrated why he carries so much of England’s hope for the next month on his young shoulders.
The former Birmingham and Borussia Dortmund player exhibits astonishing maturity for his age, bolstered by a season in which he took Spain by storm. England is reaping the benefits as they aim to overcome their recent shortcomings at major tournaments.
He demonstrated power and conviction with his stunning header, while his composure on the ball in tight situations proved to be a potent weapon for Southgate’s team.
Bellingham thrives in the freedom of the number 10 role, allowing him to influence the game across the pitch as the fulcrum of this England side.
He left the field late to a standing ovation from England fans who have embraced him as their new idol. They relished his trademark arms-outstretched celebration after his goal and his run to the center circle to energize the supporters.
Bellingham was even seen smiling on the big screens as he sat relaxed in the dugout during the closing seconds, marking another high point in his remarkable year.
England and Southgate now look forward to more contributions from their talisman as the Euro 2024 campaign progresses in Germany.
England leave room for improvement
Manager Southgate desired a victory, but England’s performance fell short of perfection as they struggled to overcome a hardworking yet unremarkable Serbia.
Despite taking an early lead, the Euro 2020 runners-up appeared poised for a comfortable win. However, as has often been the case in the past, they experienced a dip in performance after halftime, allowing their opponents to gain momentum, with Pickford making crucial saves.
England had notable positives in the performances of Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka, who looked rejuvenated and posed a significant threat in the first half, and Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, who partnered effectively with John Stones.
Southgate emphasized the importance of securing three points in the group, and while the objective was achieved, it highlighted areas for improvement before facing Denmark.
Alexander-Arnold demonstrated his ability to provide an extra attacking dimension in midfield but also conceded possession in dangerous areas, notably when Aleksandar Mitrovic narrowly missed a shot in the first half.
The left side of England’s defense, comprising Kieran Trippier and Phil Foden, failed to meet expectations. Foden, typically a standout performer in Manchester City’s Premier League title-winning campaign, had a notably subdued role.
While the victory may temporarily satisfy Southgate, there is ample room for improvement.
Player of the match: J. Bellingham