Euro2024: England hang on to beat Serbia 1-0 with Bellingham header
- Bellingham set the tempo for much of England’s attacking play in the Group C clash and was cheered by an army of England fans
Bellingham stormed into the box to connect with Bukayo Saka’s deflected cross that sailed across the box perfectly for the 20-year-old midfielder to put the Euro 2020 runners-up ahead from close range in the 13th minute.
Bellingham, who began the move himself, set the tempo for much of England’s attacking play in the Group C clash and was cheered to the rafters of the cavernous Arena AufSchalke in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, by the army of England fans bellowing his name.
Gareth Southgate’s attack-minded team initially found space down the right as Saka linked up with full back Kyle Walker, whose surging runs in the first 45 minutes threatened to help add to England’s advantage.
But Serbia upped their game at the start of the second half as they brought on Ivan Ilic for defensive midfielder Nemanja Gudelj, and before long striker Dusan Vlahovic swept a cross dangerously across England’s box, rousing their fans.
Serbia coach Dragan Stojkovic doubled down on his switch to a more attacking shape as Dusan Tadic and Luka Jovic came off the bench with just over an hour played.