Jude Bellingham rubbishes claims that he gestured towards Slovakia players after England wonder goal
Jude Bellingham has rubbished claims that he gestured towards Slovakia players after equalizing for England in the Euro 2024 Round of 16 clash on Sunday, June 30. The last edition's runners-up were on the cusp of elimination before the Real Madrid midfielder scored a last-gasp overhead kick equalizer.
Ivan Schranz's 25th-minute goal gave Slovakia a shock lead. Bellingham, however, found the back of the net in the fifth minute of injury time, showcasing his Real Madrid DNA. It was simply a magnificent goal from the midfielder.
Jude Bellingham was seen gesturing towards the bench after his goal. However, he insisted it was a gesture towards his teammates and not the Slovakian players. He wrote on Instagram:
"An inside joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game. Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight."
Harry Kane gave England the lead at the start of extra time (91). Ivan Toney made his physical presence prominent to set Kane up for a header inside the area, which the Bayer Munich ace was never going to miss.
The Three Lions reached the quarter-finals, where they will play Switzerland, despite an underwhelming display against Slovakia.
Harry Kane lavishes praise on Jude Bellingham after England's win
Big players step up at the big moments and that's what Jude Bellingham did. He scored a fabulous goal when England needed one the most against Slovakia, saving his country by the skin.
Harry Kane showered praise on Bellingham, telling the media after the game that it was one of the best goals in the country's history. The star striker said (via BBC):
"That was one of the best goals in out country's history. What a player he is. He has kept our tournament alive. He works so hard for the team and in the big moments he steps up."
Bellingham recently celebrated his 21st birthday. Despite his tender age, the Real Madrid star is already one of the biggest names in world football. His performance against Slovakia proved the youngster's mettle yet again.