An early goal from Jude Bellingham secured a 1-0 victory for England against Serbia in their Group C opener at the European Championship on Sunday.
Bellingham’s header in the 13th minute, resulting from a deflected Bukayo Saka cross, was the culmination of a move he initiated deep in midfield.
This was enough for Gareth Southgate’s team to clinch a hard-fought win at the Arena AufSchalke in Gelsenkirchen.
Jude Bellingham. 🏴🙌
📸 @EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/YgIZCghdCZ
— Actu Foot (@ActuFoot_) June 16, 2024
England dominated possession throughout the first half, but their control did not translate into numerous scoring opportunities. Serbia’s deep defensive setup limited England’s chances, and the Serbian team ended the first half without any goal attempts.
In the second half, Serbia showed more vitality but still failed to create clear chances. England came close to doubling their lead in the 77th minute when Serbian goalkeeper Predrag Rajkovic made a remarkable reflex save, deflecting Harry Kane’s close-range header onto the crossbar, preserving the narrow margin until the final whistle.