Watch Serbia vs England full match replay and highlights.
KICK-OFF at 19:00 (GMT) on 16th June 2024
The referee for this match is D. Orsato
Game played at Arena AufSchalke
This is a match in Europe – UEFA European Championship, Group C, Season 2024
Bellingham’s Header Secures England’s Narrow Victory Over Serbia in Euro 2024 Opener
Jude Bellingham’s first-half header made all the difference in Gelsenkirchen, as pre-tournament favourites England kicked off their Euro 2024 campaign with a nail-biting 1-0 win over a resilient Serbia side. Despite enduring heavy pressure in the second half, England held firm to secure the crucial three points.
Early English Dominance
Finalists in 2021, Gareth Southgate’s team began the match with confidence, buoyed by a vocal English contingent in the stands. England dominated the first ten minutes, and their early pressure paid off just before the 15-minute mark. Bukayo Saka, who was a constant threat on the right flank, received a pass from Kyle Walker and delivered a cross that deflected perfectly into the path of Jude Bellingham. The midfielder timed his run to perfection, powering a header into the top corner to give England the lead.
Serbia’s Response
Serbia, who struggled to get into the game initially, nearly equalized in the 20th minute. A rare mistake from Trent Alexander-Arnold, playing in midfield, saw him lose possession near his own goal. Aleksandar Mitrović pounced on the loose ball and unleashed a shot from the edge of the area, but his effort narrowly missed the target.
As the first half progressed, Serbia grew into the game, gaining more possession and territory. However, clear-cut chances remained scarce for both sides, leaving the match finely balanced at halftime.
Second Half Surge
The second half saw a transformed Serbian side take the field. Dragan Stojković’s men dominated possession, pinning England back in their own half. Despite their dominance, breaking through England’s solid defense to test goalkeeper Jordan Pickford proved challenging.
England’s difficulties in creating chances led Southgate to make substitutions, bringing on Conor Gallagher and Jarrod Bowen. Bowen almost doubled England’s lead with a precise cross that found Harry Kane. The captain’s close-range effort was spectacularly saved by Serbia’s goalkeeper Predrag Rajković, who tipped the shot onto the bar.
Final Stages and Serbian Pressure
As the match approached its conclusion, Serbia continued to press for an equalizer. Dušan Vlahović showcased his striking ability with a powerful shot from 25 yards, forcing a crucial save from Pickford. England’s defense, though under immense pressure, remained resolute.
In the dying minutes, England’s makeshift backline managed to withstand Serbia’s relentless attacks, ensuring a hard-fought victory. The win marks a positive start for England in their quest to end a 58-year wait for international silverware. A second win in their next match would secure their place in the knockout stages.
Looking Ahead
Serbia, on the other hand, will need to regroup quickly. They face Slovenia next and must avoid defeat to keep their hopes of advancing alive. England’s solid start sets the tone for their Euro 2024 campaign, and fans will be hopeful that this victory is the first step towards lifting the trophy.