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By Martin Graham | 1st Jul 2024
Jude Bellingham expressed satisfaction in silencing England’s critics following their thrilling victory over Slovakia in the Euro 2024 round of 16. The Real Madrid midfielder’s spectacular 95th-minute overhead kick brought England level, setting the stage for Harry Kane’s extra-time winner, securing a 2-1 triumph and a quarter-final clash with Switzerland on Saturday.
Rising to the occasion
“Representing England is both enjoyable and demanding,” remarked Bellingham. “There’s a lot of nonsense said about us. It’s gratifying when you can perform well and respond to the doubters.” Despite topping their group, England faced criticism for their performances, narrowly defeating Serbia 1-0, drawing 1-1 with Denmark, and a goalless stalemate against Slovenia before facing Slovakia.
Dramatic turnaround
England fell behind against Slovakia in Gelsenkirchen but Bellingham’s dramatic equaliser and Kane’s subsequent winner propelled them forward. “It’s challenging to speak freely in press conferences and interviews because footballers are always judged,” Bellingham added. Celebrating his goal with his signature open-armed gesture, he appeared to mouth, ‘Who else?’
“For me, football is an escape. Scoring and celebrating is a way to let go. Maybe it was a message to a few people. The adrenaline at the end was immense. There’s no other feeling like it. In international knockout football, the stakes are incredibly high.”
Responding to criticism
Earlier in the tournament, Kane had urged former England players now working as pundits to “remember what it’s like to wear the shirt” before criticizing the current squad. Bellingham echoed this sentiment, noting the intense pressure and scrutiny faced by the team. “Listening to all the negativity and feeling like you’ve let a nation down is tough. But one moment can change everything.”
England now prepares to face Switzerland, aiming to continue their journey in the tournament amidst both the pressure and the high expectations from fans and critics alike.
Martin Graham is an MFF sports writer
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