Jude Bellingham inspired England with the winning goal and a stellar performance in their Euro 2024 opener against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen.
Bellingham’s incredible season, which included a Champions League win in his first campaign with Real Madrid, continued as he showed why he is considered England’s new superstar. The 20-year-old scored with a powerful header from Bukayo Saka’s deflected cross after 13 minutes, rewarding England for an impressive start.
England, starting with Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield, reverted to old habits after the break, sitting back and allowing Serbia to apply pressure. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made a crucial late save from Dusan Vlahovic to preserve the lead.
Harry Kane nearly added a second for England, with his header from Jarrod Bowen’s cross being superbly tipped onto the bar by Serbia’s keeper Predrag Rajkovic. Despite needing improvement, this result gives England confidence heading into their next Group C game against Denmark on Thursday.
Bellingham’s performance, combining natural talent with quality and confidence, demonstrated why he is vital to England’s hopes. The former Birmingham and Borussia Dortmund player showed maturity beyond his years, bolstered by a successful season in Spain. His powerful header and composure on the ball were key for Gareth Southgate’s team.
Bellingham thrives in the number 10 role, influencing play across the pitch. He received a standing ovation from England fans, celebrating his goal with his trademark arms-outstretched gesture. His relaxed demeanor in the dugout in the closing seconds highlighted another high point in his remarkable year.
England and Southgate will hope for more from their talisman as the Euro 2024 campaign progresses in Germany. The win was crucial for Southgate, but the performance left room for improvement as England struggled to put away a determined Serbia.
England appeared poised for an easy win after the early goal but experienced a familiar drop-off in intensity after halftime, allowing Serbia to threaten. Pickford’s save was crucial in maintaining the lead.
Positives for England included Bukayo Saka’s performance, who looked refreshed and dangerous in the first half, and Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, who was solid alongside John Stones. Southgate emphasized the importance of starting with three points, and the objective was achieved, though with some areas needing attention.
Alexander-Arnold added an attacking dimension in midfield but also lost possession in dangerous areas, nearly allowing Aleksandar Mitrovic to score. The left side of Kieran Trippier and Phil Foden underperformed, with Foden unusually quiet despite his superb form for Manchester City.
For now, the win satisfies Southgate, but there is plenty to work on before facing Denmark.
