Jude Bellingham says his knack for scoring late goals with Real Madrid during the 2023-24 season played a role in England’s comeback 2-1 extra time win over Slovakia in the Euro 2024 round of 16 on Sunday.
The Three Lions were facing a disappointing exit after the Slovakians went ahead in the first half.
Bellingham however salvaged the situation with a stunning bicycle kick deep in added time before Harry Kane scored the winner few minutes into the first half of extra time.
“You know, it’s a feeling that, you know, is like no other, you know, I think in international football and knockout football it is even, a worse feeling because, you know, you’re 30 seconds from going home, having to listen to all the rubbish, feeling like you’ve let a nation of people down,” the former Borussia Dortmund midfielder said.
“And in 30 seconds or in one kick of the ball everything can change. And, yeah, it’s a feeling that I never want- I don’t like to be in, but when it’s done it feels great, so.
“Yeah, it’s a habit I’ve picked up from [Real Madrid]. Obviously my game’s improved a lot since I’ve joined, and yeah, I’m really grateful I could bring it to this game.”
Bellingham, who scored 23 competitive goals and provided 11 assists for Madrid, added:
“I think the adrenaline gets you, but it’s a combination of a lot of things, you know? Playing for England is an enjoyable feeling, but it’s also a lot of pressure. You hear people talk a lot of rubbish.
“And, you know, it’s nice that when you deliver, you can give them a little bit back. You know, it’s very difficult in press conferences and interviews and things like that to talk as openly as footballers want to because they’re always judged.
“And, for me, football and being on the pitch, scoring goals, celebrating is my release. And, you know, it was maybe a message to a few people, but, very happy moment and full of adrenaline.”
Stunning from Jude Bellingham š¤øš²@AlipayPlus | #EUROGOTT pic.twitter.com/0CAWvwhO2W
ā UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) June 30, 2024
Reflecting on Bellingham’s performance, Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze said: “Yes for sure, he’s an important player for the team. We’ve seen his performances for our tournament, but we’ve got players ready to come out, ready to do the job, ready to perform and I’m sure we will work out for sure.”
Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher also said of Bellingham’s goal: “Just honestly buzzing like every single English fan. Incredible goal, incredible moment. A lot of credit to him and to all the boys that were playing, it was an incredible night.
England have now progressed to the quarter-finals and will take on Switzerland in Dusseldorf on Saturday.
