UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak makes 'special' claim about Jude Bellingham after England beat Serbia to kick-off Euro 2024 campaign with win
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has called Jude Bellingham 'something special' after the England superstar scored the winner in a 1-0 Euro 2024 opening win against Serbia. The Three Lions were unconvincing in their opening game of the international tournament in Germany, but the Real Madrid star shined.
Sunak celebrated his nation's victory on Sunday (June 16) with a post on X (formerly Twitter). He stated:
"Tense finish but they got the job done. Jude Bellingham is something special. Onto the next one!"
Jude Bellingham, 20, starred for England and grabbed the game's only goal in the 13th minute. He rose highest to power a fierce header past Serbian goalkeeper Predrag Rajkovic.
The Madrid midfielder ran Dragan Stojkovic's side ragged all game with a commanding performance in a No. 10 role. He also won nine of 15 ground duels and found his man with all four long ball attempts.
Bellingham headed into Euro 2024 with huge expectations on his shoulders amid a remarkable debut season at the Santiago Bernabeu. Gareth Southgate trusted in him as his No. 10 ahead of Phil Foden, who he moved to the left flank, but he was disappointing.
The Birmingham City academy graduate's goal meant the Three Lions top Group C. They are next in action when they face Denmark on Thursday (June 20).
"I wanted to carry my form into Euros" - Jude Bellingham's on his winner in England's opening Euro 2024 win
Jude Bellingham was thrilled to kickstart his Euro 2024 campaign with the winner against Serbia. The 30-cap England international explained how his season at the Bernabeu has helped him get into certain attacking positions (via EnglandFootball.com):
"I have got used to getting in the box, playing wide or taking people on through the middle. Playing the ball wide and getting into the box, I've got into the habit at Madrid and I wanted to carry my form into the Euros... It's a great start for me personally to get my confidence up and to help us win the game is the most important thing."
Bellingham is tipped to be one of the top performers at Euro 2024. He started with a man-of-the-match performance against Serbia. He also became the first European player to appear in three major international tournaments before turning 21.
The former Borussia Dortmund star was in scintillating form for Madrid last season. He posted 23 goals and 13 assists in 42 games across competitions. He was key as Carlo Ancelotti's side won the La Liga title, the UEFA Champions League, and the Supercopa de Espana.