Jude Bellingham is confident he can deliver in big moments for England at Euro 2024 after scoring a stunning equaliser in the 2-1 comeback win over Slovakia.
England looked to be heading out of Euro 2024 after struggling to break down an organised Slovakia side, who had taken a lead through Ivan Schranz’s third goal of the tournament. Gareth Southgate’ side again lacked cutting edge and failed to register a shot on target as the last-16 clash headed into stoppage time.
Five minutes in to the additional time, Bellingham rescued England with a moment of magic. Kyle Walker’s long throw-in was flicked on and the Real Madrid midfielder met the loose ball with an acrobatic overhead kick to force extra-time.
Harry Kane scored the winner just a minute into the added 30 minutes to book England a clash with Switzerland in the quarter-finals next weekend.
“I know what I can deliver in those moments,” Bellingham said to ITV Sport.
“Regardless of what people say, I’ve done it this year for Madrid, I’ve done it for England before. Just happy to help the team.”
On where he ranks his equalising goal in career moments, he added: “Depends how we’re looking in two weeks. If it ends up being one that helps the team win the cup then it will be right up there.”
“A good win, through to the next round. Very happy,” he continued when reflecting on the result.
“It’s been tough the last week or so to keep the negative energy out of the camp. I think today they will have been ready for us. We showed the character that England’s missed. It’s very important to get through.
“I think the performance was really good until their goal and even after. We had massive control of the game, always threatening in the final third, maybe just lacking the final touch to create big chances. It’s going to be important for us going forward, definitely.”
Bellingham’s goal will take the headlines but the 21-year-old was keen to emphasise the team effort from England after a tough win.
“Look at who came on. We’ve won this game together. Not me, not Harry, not the individual moments. It’s the likes of Ivan Toney, Eberechi Eze, Cole Palmer – Bukayo Saka going to left-back. It’s the sacrifice you make for the team and that’s the energy we need to keep regardless of what goes on.”
