Serbia 0-1 England
Jude Bellingham got England’s European campaign off to a winning start with the opening goal and a mouth-watering performance against Serbia.
It’s easy to forget that Bellingham is only 20 years of age given his composure and control in midfield. But he was a level above anything the opposition had to offer as he continued his remarkable form, which saw him collect a Champions League medal during his first season at Real Madrid.
It wasn’t just a one-man show for the Three Lions, though. Bukayo Saka was a constant menace throughout the first half, and former West Ham captain Declan Rice was increasingly influential as the game progressed.
Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi was impressive in a makeshift defence and will have cemented his place in Gareth Southgate’s starting line-up.
Jarrod Bowen was introduced in the 75th minute as England toiled following a more difficult second half for Saka and immediately made an impression. The West Ham winger tricked his way past his marker and delivered a sumptuous right-footed cross onto the head of captain Harry Kane, who was unlucky not to score.
All in all, it was an excellent result for England, although the team undoubtedly dropped off in the second half. It was all about the win, though, particularly given the robust nature of a Serbian team that never made it easy for Gareth Southgate’s men.
From a West Ham perspective, it was excellent for Bowen to get some game time so early in the tournament. I’m sure it made his father’s campervan journey to Germany all the more worthwhile.
It will all end in tears
Agree, Jarrod was good for the 15 minutes or so that he was on for. But England were not impressive at all, apart from Bellingham, and Saka in the first half. They will have to do much better than playing like Moyes Boys – passing sideways and back and generally moving at a snail’s pace – if they are going to compete with the better teams. I hope they can lift their game. Maybe Southgate can play some of the newer stars in the squad instead of his trusty old guard all the time!