Jude Bellingham's first half header proved to be the difference as England edged past Serbia in the Euro 2024 on June 16, Sunday. England were pushed back by Serbia in the second half but the Three Lions held on for the win.
Bellingham proved to be the difference in the end (Courtesy: Reuters)
New Delhi,UPDATED: Jun 17, 2024 05:53 IST
Jude Bellingham's powerful first-half header secured England's 1-0 victory over Serbia, marking a confident start to their Euro 2024 campaign on Sunday. The match, held at Arena AufSchalke, saw the Three Lions clinging to their early lead by the final whistle.
Bellingham, who was instrumental in initiating the move for the goal, connected with Bukayo Saka's deflected cross to head England into the lead in the 13th minute. The 20-year-old midfielder's performance set the tone for England's attacking play, earning him rapturous applause from the fans. England's early dominance was evident, particularly down the right flank where Saka and fullback Kyle Walker created numerous opportunities. However, the second half saw a shift in momentum as Serbia grew more threatening.
The match's total of 11 shots, with six from Serbia and five from England, was the lowest recorded in a European Championship match since at least 1980, according to Opta.
Serbia force England to hold on in 2nd half
Serbia's improved performance in the second half was sparked by the introduction of Ivan Ilic for defensive midfielder Nemanja Gudelj. Striker Dusan Vlahovic soon sent a dangerous cross across England's box, igniting Serbian fans' hopes.
In response to Serbia's attacking changes, which included the arrivals of Dusan Tadic and Luka Jovic, England's manager Gareth Southgate introduced Conor Gallagher, replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold who was in an unusual midfield role. Later, Jarrod Bowen's precise cross found Harry Kane, whose header was expertly saved by Serbian goalkeeper Predrag Rajkovic.
Despite Serbia's pressure, including a fierce Vlahovic shot that was tipped over by Jordan Pickford, England's defence, featuring Marc Guehi on his tournament debut and Kieran Trippier as an improvised left-back, managed to hold firm.
What Bellingham said?
Bellingham was asked if England was still a team in progress after the gritty win and the midfielder said that wasn't the case.
"I don't agree with that," he said. "I think the first half shows why we can score goals against any team and the second half shows why we can keep a clean sheet against any team."
The win places England at the top of Group C, following Denmark and Slovenia's 1-1 draw earlier in the day. England will face Denmark next on Thursday, June 20, while Serbia will take on Slovenia.
Published On:
Jun 17, 2024
English (US) ·