Jude Bellingham secured England’s opening win in Euro 2024 with a decisive header, leading to a 1-0 victory over Serbia.
Bellingham eased the tension among fans early, scoring in the 13th minute off a deflected cross from Bukayo Saka.
The 20-year-old’s goal followed his remarkable season with Real Madrid, where he capped it off by winning the Champions League.
Kyle Walker had a prime opportunity in the 25th minute, racing into the box and sending the ball across the goal.
England controlled much of the first half, but Serbia showed their potential when Aleksandar Mitrovic narrowly missed a shot in the 20th minute.
Serbia returned from the break revitalized, winning more challenges and putting England under significant pressure.
England’s possession waned, leading Gareth Southgate to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold with Conor Gallagher and swap Saka for Jarrod Bowen.
Harry Kane came close to doubling England’s lead in the 77th minute, with his header being deflected onto the crossbar by Serbia’s goalkeeper.
Kane, who had a stellar season with 44 goals for Bayern Munich, had a relatively quiet match otherwise.
In the 82nd minute, Jordan Pickford made a crucial save, denying Dusan Vlahovic’s shot from 22 yards.
Bellingham, who netted the game’s only goal, was substituted late in the match for Manchester United’s young talent, Kobbie Mainoo.
With this win, England sits at the top of their group, following a 1-1 draw between Denmark and Slovenia earlier.
England is set to face Denmark this Thursday and Slovenia on June 25th.
