In a tension-filled opener at Euro 2024, Jude Bellingham’s first-half header secured a crucial 1-0 victory for England over a determined Serbian side in Gelsenkirchen.
England, runners-up in the 2021 tournament, came out strong, backed by a vocal English contingent. Their early dominance was rewarded just before the 15-minute mark when Bukayo Saka, a constant threat down the right, delivered a deflected cross that found Bellingham. The young midfielder timed his run perfectly and powered a header into the top corner, leaving Serbian goalkeeper Predrag Rajković helpless.
Serbia, who had been on the back foot, almost equalized five minutes later. Trent Alexander-Arnold, selected in midfield, lost possession in a dangerous area, allowing Aleksandar Mitrović to shoot from the edge of the box. His effort, however, whistled just wide of Jordan Pickford’s goal. This scare seemed to spur Serbia on, and they gradually grew into the game, though clear opportunities were scarce before halftime.
After the break, Serbia emerged with renewed vigor, dominating possession and pinning England back for long stretches. Despite their control, they struggled to break down England’s well-organized defense. Pickford remained largely untroubled, although the pressure was mounting.
Gareth Southgate responded by bringing on Conor Gallagher and Jarrod Bowen to bolster England’s efforts. Bowen nearly sealed the game with a pinpoint cross that Harry Kane headed onto the bar, only for Rajković to make a stunning save. Serbia continued to push for an equalizer, and Dušan Vlahović tested Pickford with a fierce shot from distance, which the England goalkeeper expertly tipped over.
As the match drew to a close, England’s defense stood firm against Serbia’s relentless attacks. The victory puts England in a strong position, needing just one more win to secure a place in the knockout stages. Serbia, meanwhile, must avoid defeat against Slovenia in their next match to keep their tournament hopes alive.
For his decisive goal and all-around performance, Jude Bellingham was deservedly named Man of the Match.