A decisive first-half header from Jude Bellingham propelled England to a victorious start in their Euro 2024 journey, securing a 1-0 victory against Serbia on Sunday. The match started confidently for the Three Lions but ended with them holding on tightly. Bellingham aggressively entered the penalty area to capitalize on Bukayo Saka's redirected cross, which was expertly delivered for the 20-year-old midfielder to score from close range in the 13th minute. Bellingham, instrumental in initiating the play, dictated much of England's offensive strategy in the Group C encounter, receiving thunderous support from the English fans at the Arena AufSchalke. Gareth Southgate's offensive-focused team initially exploited space on the right, with Saka and full-back Kyle Walker combining effectively, threatening to extend England's lead. However, Serbia intensified their efforts in the second half, introducing Ivan Ilic for Nemanja Gudelj, and soon Dusan Vlahovic delivered a menacing cross into England's box, energizing their supporters. Serbia's coach, Dragan Stojkovic, reinforced his attacking tactics by bringing on Dusan Tadic and Luka Jovic after an hour. Southgate countered by bringing in the energetic Conor Gallagher, replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold in a midfield role, and later, Jarrod Bowen's cross found captain Harry Kane, whose header was deflected onto the bar by goalkeeper Predrag Rajkovic in the 77th minute. Five minutes later, a powerful shot from Vlahovic was parried over by Jordan Pickford as Serbia continued to press. England, featuring a less familiar defensive lineup with Marc Guehi making his major tournament debut and Kieran Trippier filling in at left back, managed to secure the win. The outcome placed England at the top of the group following Denmark and Slovenia's 1-1 draw earlier on Sunday. England will face Denmark next, while Serbia will meet Slovenia.
Text: Lara Palmer
17.06.2024
England starts Euro 2024 campaign with a narrow victory, holding off a second-half surge from Serbia