England staged a dramatic comeback in the final moments of their Euro 2024 Round of 16 match against Slovakia, securing a 2-1 win in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, thanks to goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane.
The Three Lions were on the brink of elimination as Slovakia maintained a 1-0 lead since the 25th minute when Ivan Schranz scored with a low finish past England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.
In a spectacular display of skill, Bellingham, who celebrated his 21st birthday on Saturday, executed a stunning overhead kick in the penalty area, converting Marc Guehi’s headed flick into a goal past Martin Dubravka.
Captain Harry Kane then sealed England’s victory just a minute into extra time, heading home from close range to complete the turnaround and secure a quarter-final clash with Switzerland.
Switzerland advanced to the quarter-finals after a comfortable 2-0 win over holders Italy on Saturday.
England, considered one of the favourites to end their 58-year wait for major tournament glory, seemed destined for an early exit following Schranz’s 25th-minute goal.
The victory has revitalized Gareth Southgate’s tenure as England manager.
“That’s the desire and the attitude from the boys. It looked tough for a second there but you keep going… Jude does what Jude does and what an unbelievable goal,” Kane said post-match.
Kane also praised Bellingham’s goal, calling it “one of the best in our country’s history, I reckon.”