June 16th 2024.
In their first match of Euro 2024, England managed to secure a tense 1-0 victory against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen, thanks to a goal from the young sensation Jude Bellingham. The game got off to a perfect start for England, with Bellingham's powerful header finding the back of the net in the 13th minute, leaving Serbia's goalkeeper Predrag Rajkovic with no chance.
The second half saw England's star striker Harry Kane come close to doubling their lead, with his headed effort being brilliantly saved by Rajkovic. However, Serbia came back strongly and put England's defense under pressure, forcing them to dig deep to protect their lead. Overall, it was a hard-fought victory for England, and here's how The Agency rated the performances of each player.
Jordan Pickford, England's goalkeeper, had a relatively quiet first half but was alert whenever called upon. He made an important save late in the game to deny Dusan Vlahovic's attempt at goal. Kyle Walker, a dependable performer for England, put on another solid display, both in attack and defense. John Stones, who had an injury scare in their final warm-up match, was crucial in England's defense and formed a strong partnership with Marc Guehi.
Guehi, who came in to replace the injured Harry Maguire, had an excellent game and looked composed throughout. He dealt with the physicality of Serbia's strikers with ease and never looked out of place in central defense. Kieran Trippier, who played at left-back, provided height in attack but failed to complete any crosses. This continues to be a concern for England, as they lack a natural left-back to stretch the game down both flanks.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, who was brought in to add creativity to the midfield, showed glimpses of his ability with some pinpoint passes. However, he was also at fault for giving the ball away cheaply, which almost cost England in the first half. He was substituted in the second half for more defensive stability, with Declan Rice coming on.
Rice, who had a fantastic season at Arsenal, carried his form into the game and put in an outstanding performance. He was everywhere on the pitch, breaking up play and providing cover for his teammates. Bukayo Saka, who made his breakthrough into the England team at the last Euros, was a constant threat down the right side in the first half and provided the assist for Bellingham's goal.
Speaking of Bellingham, the young midfielder had an all-action display and was rightfully substituted to a hero's reception after scoring the winning goal. Phil Foden, on the other hand, failed to live up to his club form and was largely ineffective for England. Kane, England's captain, had a quiet game but was denied a goal by an excellent save from Rajkovic.
In the end, England managed to hold on to their lead and secure a crucial victory. Conor Gallagher and Jarrod Bowen came on as substitutes and put in decent performances, while Kobbie Mainoo didn't have enough time to make an impact. Overall, it was a hard-fought victory for England, and they will be hoping for more convincing performances in the future.
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