England secures victory in the initial match of Euro 2024, besting Serbia in the Group C encounter.
Jude Bellingham kicks off the points for the Three Lions, darting into the box to nod in a deflected cross from Bukayo Saka for the goal in the 13th minute. English supporters break out into a fansong of The Beatles’ "Hey Jude," jubilant over the early advantage.
Aged 20 years, 353 days, Bellingham takes the title of England's third youngest goal scorer in Euro history, beating out only Wayne Rooney (18 years, 237 days) and Michael Owen (20 years, 189 days).
During the second half, England captain Harry Kane strides close to amplifying the team's lead with a header in the 77th minute, however, Serbia Goalkeeper Predrag Rajković performs a fantastic tip-over of the shot off the upper crossbar.
Serbia seemed primed to level the score, relentlessly attacking England but coming up short in finding the back of the net in the tense closing moments.
As per UEFA, ever since a 2-1 loss to France at EURO 2004, the Three Lions have remained undefeated in eight contests in the competition when leading at halftime, winning six matches and drawing two.
England climbs to the top of Group C with the win, and following an initial 1-1 draw between Denmark and Slovenia.
England will face Denmark again on Thursday, while Serbia squares off with Slovenia on the same day.
Read also:
In the excitement of England's victory, some fans were seen playing a game of footy in the stands, mimicking the action on the pitch. After securing the win, the English team celebrated by watching a replay of their goal on the sidelines, with several players enthusiastically kicking around a football.
