- Jude Bellingham kept their hopes alive.
- Slovakia had stunned the Three Lions early
- Captain Harry Kane rose above the defense
England’s Euro 2024 journey almost came to a crashing halt against a determined Slovakia side. Facing elimination with seconds remaining, a moment of brilliance from young star Jude Bellingham kept their hopes alive.
Slovakia had stunned the Three Lions early, taking the lead in the 25th minute through Ivan Schranz. England’s attack sputtered throughout the match, failing to register a single shot on target until the dying moments.
However, Bellingham, who just celebrated his 21st birthday, rose to the occasion in spectacular fashion. He met a headed flick from Marc Guehi with a stunning overhead kick, sending the ball past Slovakia’s Martin Dubravka for a dramatic equalizer in the 95th minute.
Bellingham’s heroics completely shifted the momentum. Slovakia, who had defended valiantly all game, seemed deflated. Just one minute into extra time, England capitalized. Captain Harry Kane rose above the defense to head home a cross, securing a 2-1 victory and a quarter-final clash with Switzerland.
While England’s overall performance left room for concern, Bellingham’s magic in the dying moments proved to be the difference. The young midfielder continues to be England’s talisman as their stuttering Euros campaign takes a dramatic turn for the better.
