England narrowly avoided a shocking Euro 2024 exit, securing a 2-1 extra-time victory over Slovakia in the last-16, thanks to goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane. The win sets up a quarter-final clash with Switzerland on Saturday at 5pm.
Just 86 seconds from elimination, Bellingham, who recently turned 21, showcased his talent by leveling the score in the 95th minute with a spectacular bicycle kick from a long throw-in. This canceled out Ivan Schranz’s first-half goal and pushed the match into extra time. Early in the additional period, Harry Kane capitalized on Ivan Toney’s flick to head in the decisive goal, securing England’s spot in the next round.
The match could have ended differently as England struggled for much of the game. Criticism was mounting towards manager Gareth Southgate for his late tactical changes, having only made one substitution before the 82nd minute when Cole Palmer replaced the injured Kieran Trippier. Slovakia’s Schranz had given his team the lead, calmly finishing a pass from David Strelec after bypassing Marc Guehi and beating Jordan Pickford.
England’s attack looked lackluster for most of the game. Phil Foden’s disallowed goal due to offside and Harry Kane’s missed header from a free-kick added to their frustrations. Declan Rice also came close with a long-range effort that hit the post. However, Bellingham’s timely equalizer and Kane’s extra-time goal turned the tide for the Three Lions.
Gareth Southgate expressed his relief and confidence post-match on ITV Sport:
“It’s strange, but I never felt like tonight would be the end of our tournament.
“Even with the long throw [from Kyle Walker], you felt there was hope. We can cause some chaos and something might drop. I didn’t think the finish would be quite what it was!
“With 15 minutes to go, you’re thinking Jude is out on his feet and should we take him off and put fresh legs on.
“But you know the sort of impact he can have on a game and those moments are why you stick with him at that time.
“The top players affect the big games in the moments when you need them. It’s that mentality that he has.”
England’s victory ensures their tournament journey continues, with a quarter-final match against Switzerland on the horizon.
Credit: Sky Sports
