Jude Bellingham fired in a header to help England get up and running in Euro 2024 as they beat Serbia 1-0.
Bellingham settled fans’ nerves early on, scoring from a deflected Bukayo Saka cross in the 13th minute.
The 20-year-old’s goal came just a few weeks after he finished a stellar season with Real Madrid by lifting the Champions League.
Kyle Walker also had a good chance in the 25th minute, using his pace to dart into the box and flash the ball across goal.
England dominated most of the first half, though there was a warning of Serbia’s threat when Aleksandar Mitrovic sent a shot a few yards wide in the 20th minute.
Serbia were far improved after the break, winning more 50-50 balls and forcing England to soak up pressure for most of the half.
Southgate’s team struggled for possession and Trent Alexander-Arnold made way for Conor Gallagher and Saka was subbed for Jarrod Bowen.
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Fans’ delight after Bellingham goal gives England a win in Euro 2024 opener against Serbia
Harry Kane almost made it 2-0 with a header from close range in the 77th minute, but the Serbian keeper pushed it on to the crossbar.
It was a quiet game overall for the captain, who scored a prolific 44 goals with Bayern Munich this season.
Jordan Pickford also made a crucial save in the 82nd minute to keep out Dusan Vlahovic’s shot from about 22 yards.
Goal scorer Bellingham was subbed late on for another young prodigy, Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo, but fans will be happy the star man got on the score sheet.
The result puts England top of their group after Denmark and Slovenia drew 1-1 earlier.
Next up for the Three Lions is Denmark this Thursday followed by Slovenia on 25 June.
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