Jude Bellingham scored the winner as England beat Serbia 1-0 in Gelsenkirchen, western Germany – a positive result to start the Euro but a less than convincing performance. Trouble between fans of both countries was filmed before kick-off.
Jude Bellingham’s powerful header in the first half gave England a flying start to their Euro 2024 season. They started confidently with a 1-0 win over Serbia on Sunday, but the Three Lions held on until the end.
Bellingham broke into the penalty area and was able to take advantage of Bukayo Saka’s deflected cross, which was perfect for the 20-year-old midfielder to slot into the box and give the Euro 2020 runners-up the lead from close range in the 13th minute.
Bellingham started the move himself, setting the tempo for England’s attack in the Group C match and was cheered on by hordes of England fans shouting his name from the rooftops of the cavernous Aufschalke Arena.
Gareth Southgate’s attack-minded team threatened to extend England’s lead with a strong first 45 minutes, with Saka linking up with full-back Kyle Walker, initially finding space down the right wing.
But Serbia stepped up their game at the start of the second half, bringing on Ivan Ilić for defensive midfielder Nemanja Gudelj, and moments later striker Dusan Vlahovic smashed a dangerous cross into the England penalty area to thrill the England fans. Fire.
Serbia coach Dragan Stojkovic sanctioned a switch to a more attacking formation when he replaced Dusan Tadić for Luka Jović with just over an hour to play.
Southgate responded by introducing the energetic Conor Gallagher, who replaced Trent Alexander-Arnold in an unfamiliar midfield role, and fellow substitute Jarrod Bowen crossed for captain Harry Kane, whose header struck goalkeeper Predrag Rajkovic’s crossbar in the 77th minute after being tampered with.
Five minutes later, Jordan Pickford deflected Vlahović’s powerful shot over the crossbar as Serbia continued their pressure.
But England held on to victory with some unusual defensive play, with Marc Guehi playing his first major tournament and right-footed Kieran Trippier at left back.
The result put England at the top of the group after Denmark and Slovenia drew 1-1 on Sunday. England play Denmark on Thursday, while Serbia plays Slovenia.