England were just a few minutes seconds away from a shocking Euro 2024 exit until Jude Bellingham’s spectacular goal spurred a 2-1 victory over Slovakia in the last 16.
Trailing 1-0 to Ivan Schranz’s first-half strike, England appeared on the brink of elimination. But Bellingham, showcasing his talismanic presence once again, leveled the score with their first shot on target in the 95th minute. His stunning bicycle kick from a long throw-in soared past Martin Dubravka, forcing the game into extra-time.
England seized the momentum immediately in the extra period. Just 50 seconds in, Harry Kane scored the fastest goal ever in UEFA European Championship extra time, heading in Ivan Toney’s flick to secure the win and set up a quarter-final clash with Switzerland next Saturday at 5 pm.
Kane’s goal, coming within a minute of extra time, broke records as England now holds the fastest extra-time goal in both the EUROs and the FIFA World Cup, the latter achieved against Belgium in 1954.
The match, however, had its tense moments. England struggled against a determined Slovakian side ranked 45th in the world, with long stretches where they were outplayed. Manager Gareth Southgate faced criticism for his hesitancy to make tactical changes, his only substitution before the 82nd minute being Cole Palmer, who replaced the injured Kieran Trippier.
The victory, while hard-fought and nerve-wracking, highlighted England’s resilience and the invaluable contributions of their key players. Bellingham’s extraordinary goal and Kane’s historic strike have given The Three Lions another chance at European glory.
England fans will hope their team can build on this dramatic win as they prepare for the next crucial match against Switzerland.
