In one of the most dramatic moments in England's recent tournament history, Jude Bellingham produced a moment of pure magic to save Gareth Southgate's side from what seemed certain elimination from Euro 2024.
With just seconds remaining in stoppage time and England trailing 1-0 to a resilient Slovakia side, the Real Madrid superstar launched himself into the air to connect with Marc Guéhi's flick-on, executing a breathtaking overhead kick that sent the ball crashing into the net and sending English fans into delirium.
The Great Escape in Gelsenkirchen
Ivan Schranz's first-half goal had put Slovakia on course for a historic victory, with England producing another underwhelming performance that saw them staring down the barrel of a humiliating early exit. For 94 minutes, Southgate's men struggled to break down a disciplined Slovak defence, with familiar issues of slow build-up play and lack of creativity plaguing their efforts.
Just when all hope seemed lost, Bellingham's moment of individual brilliance changed everything. The 21-year-old, who had been largely quiet throughout the match, chose the perfect moment to remind the world why he's considered one of football's brightest talents.
Kane Seals the Turnaround
If Bellingham's goal provided the lifeline, Harry Kane delivered the knockout blow just moments into extra time. The England captain rose magnificently to head home from close range after a clever set-piece routine, completing a remarkable turnaround that left Slovakia players devastated.
The scenes of celebration among England players and staff contrasted sharply with the despair of the Slovak team, who had come within seconds of creating one of the tournament's biggest upsets.
Southgate's Selection Headaches Continue
Despite the victory, questions will persist about England's overall performance and team selection. The decision to start Kieran Trippier at left-back again limited England's attacking options down that flank, while the midfield combination of Declan Rice and Kobbie Mainoo struggled to impose themselves for large periods.
"We were 30 seconds from going home and being part of a national disappointment," Southgate admitted after the match. "That would have been devastating for the group and the whole country."
Quarter-Final Awaits
England now advance to face Switzerland in the quarter-finals, but significant improvements will be needed if they're to progress further in the tournament. The performance against Slovakia highlighted ongoing issues that Switzerland will look to exploit.
For now, however, England fans can celebrate a great escape that will live long in the memory, thanks to a moment of pure genius from their young superstar when it mattered most.
