England kicked off their Euro 2024 campaign with a hard-fought 1–0 win over Serbia in Gelsenkirchen. It wasn’t a game that set pulses racing, but tournament football is often about results over rhythm, and Gareth Southgate’s side did just enough to get off to a winning start.

Match Recap

Final score: Serbia 0–1 England
Goal: Jude Bellingham (13′)

England made the perfect start. After some slick interplay down the right, Bukayo Saka’s deflected cross looped into the box where Jude Bellingham arrived late to power home a header. From there, the Three Lions controlled the first half with composure, particularly through their right side, Saka and Kyle Walker causing early problems for Serbia’s back line.

The second half was a different story. Serbia grew into the game, using their physicality and direct play to put England under pressure. Dušan Vlahović forced a smart save from Jordan Pickford, while England relied on defensive discipline to see the game out. Harry Kane came close to doubling the lead late on, his header tipped onto the bar by Predrag Rajković.

It wasn’t comfortable, but it was professional.

Key Talking Points

1. Bellingham the Difference-Maker

Once again, Jude Bellingham delivered when it mattered. His energy, timing, and confidence stood out in a midfield that occasionally looked cautious. At just 20 years old, he’s already playing like England’s emotional and tactical heartbeat.

2. England’s Attack Lacked Flow

Beyond the opening goal, England struggled to create clear chances. Phil Foden drifted inside to limited effect, while Kane often dropped deep in search of service. Southgate’s system, with Trent Alexander-Arnold partnering Declan Rice in midfield, offered control but not much creativity in the final third. It’s an issue England will need to solve against stronger opposition.

3. Defensive Solidity Wins the Day

Credit where it’s due: England’s defence stood firm. John Stones and Marc Guéhi handled Serbia’s aerial threat well, and Rice shielded the back line effectively. There were moments of discomfort under pressure, but overall, England managed the game maturely.

4. Serbia’s Second-Half Surge

Serbia were passive early on but came alive after the break. Aleksandar Mitrović bullied the England defence at times, and substitute Sergej Milinković-Savić added drive from midfield. They’ll take heart from how they finished — though failing to convert pressure into chances cost them.

What It Means for Group C

Group C: England, Denmark, Slovenia, Serbia

England’s Upcoming Fixtures

• vs Denmark – June 20, Frankfurt
• vs Slovenia – June 25, Cologne

With three points already in the bag, England are well placed. A win over Denmark would all but secure top spot. However, Southgate’s side will want to improve creatively to avoid being dragged into cagey encounters later in the group.

Serbia’s Upcoming Fixtures

• vs Slovenia – June 20, Munich
• vs Denmark – June 25, Munich

For Serbia, it’s now must-win territory. They’ll target the Slovenia game as their best chance to get back on track. The Denmark fixture could be decisive for whether they sneak through as one of the best third-placed teams.

Final Verdict

England did what was needed: three points, a clean sheet, and no injuries. It wasn’t fluent or flashy, but tournament openers rarely are. Bellingham once again looked every inch the world-class midfielder England hoped for, while the defense showed the kind of resilience that can carry teams deep into major tournaments.

Serbia, meanwhile, showed fight but not enough cutting edge. If they can start games with the intensity they ended this one, they’ll trouble both Slovenia and Denmark.

The Euro 2024 journey has begun, not with fireworks, but with a foundation. For England, it’s a platform to build on; for Serbia, a warning that there’s no margin for slow starts at this level.