Jude Bellingham of England celebrates his assist for Marcus Rashford's goal during their clash with Italy at Wembley Stadium in London, England, October 17, 2023. /CFP
Jude Bellingham of England celebrates his assist for Marcus Rashford's goal during their clash with Italy at Wembley Stadium in London, England, October 17, 2023. /CFP
"Did you enjoy that?" gushed Jude Bellingham after the final whistle, his air of self-assurance exuding from every pore.
The prodigious English talent, who entered the showdown with reigning champions Italy with an impressive record of netting 10 goals in his initial 10 appearances for Real Madrid, left the pitch amidst the resonating strains of "Hey Jude." Displaying his infectious enthusiasm, he even took on the role of conductor, encapsulating his profound enjoyment of every moment at Wembley Stadium.
Hey Jude, you undeniably embody the primary catalyst behind England's seemingly effortless qualification for Euro 2024.
As the leader and the shining star, Bellingham eclipsed any lingering doubts. Despite being a mere 20 years of age, the sensational wunderkind asserts himself as the pivotal figure, the game-changer, and the one who consistently makes a profound difference on the pitch.
England's Jude Bellingham celebrates after his side scored their second goal during their clash with Italy at Wembley Stadium in London, England, October 17, 2023. /CFP
England's Jude Bellingham celebrates after his side scored their second goal during their clash with Italy at Wembley Stadium in London, England, October 17, 2023. /CFP
In the wake of an early goal conceded to Italy's striker Gianluca Scamacca, England had initially found themselves in a state of laborious struggle. However, it was Bellingham who exhibited an unwavering determination to penetrate the opposition's defensive lines, displaying both courage and tenacity. Seizing control of the contest, he steered its course with remarkable efficacy.
The midfielder demonstrated his instrumental role in England's opening goal, skillfully winning a penalty by latching onto a well-placed through ball. However, he surpassed this feat with his involvement in the second goal. Starting from his defensive third, he carried the ball forward into the opposition's half.
With astute awareness and selflessness, he made a flawless run inside Giovanni Di Lorenzo, effectively drawing him away and creating valuable space for Marcus Rashford to cut inside and find the back of the net. As England secured their lead, Bellingham fearlessly displayed his creativity and flair, executing audacious flicks and feints that left opponents humbled.
Subsequently, Harry Kane delivered a decisive blow to extinguish any lingering hopes of an Italian comeback as he swiftly surged forward and secured England's third goal. Notably, as the match reached its closing stages, Bellingham made way for Jack Grealish, receiving a resounding ovation reminiscent of the adoration reserved for a national hero.
England's Harry Kane reacts after scoring his team's third goal during their clash with Italy at Wembley Stadium in London, England, October 17, 2023. /CFP
England's Harry Kane reacts after scoring his team's third goal during their clash with Italy at Wembley Stadium in London, England, October 17, 2023. /CFP
England have yearned for a player of Bellingham's caliber and his presence has breathed new life into the team. The thrilling talent and numerous admirable qualities exhibited by this squad are indeed a sight to behold.
The Three Lions have endured only a solitary defeat in their past 63 Euro and World Cup qualifiers, and their triumph Tuesday holds added significance, as it marks England's first home victory against Italy since 1977. This victory also serves as a form of redemption, given their heart-wrenching loss to Italy in the Euro 2020 final at Wembley two years ago.
It comes as no surprise that Gareth Southgate effusively praised Bellingham, following in the footsteps of Walter Winterbottom in 1949 as the first England manager to achieve consecutive victories against Italy.
"His mentality is incredible," beamed the English tactician. "For someone of his age to show such maturity and intelligence is unbelievable. We are lucky to have him. He's been the catalyst - the way he carries himself and plays on the field shows that and he's had that since he walked through the door."
Italy's Gianluca Scamacca (L) celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's first goal during their clash with England at Wembley Stadium in London, England, October 17, 2023. /CFP
Italy's Gianluca Scamacca (L) celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's first goal during their clash with England at Wembley Stadium in London, England, October 17, 2023. /CFP
Bellingham's teammates also showered him with adulation, astounded by the youngster's continuous growth and influence on the game. Kalvin Phillips expressed his disbelief, marveling at how Bellingham seems to "get better and better" with each passing match. Rashford, in awe of his teammate's abilities, described him as an "unbelievable" star.
England have historically thrived when unveiling fresh talent on the global stage, as witnessed with the electrifying debuts of Michael Owen in 1998 and Wayne Rooney in 2004. Bellingham possesses all the attributes to carry on this tradition and captivate football enthusiasts worldwide.