In the Round of 16 of the Euros, England narrowly defeated Slovakia after an equalizer in stoppage time and a goal in extra time to advance to the quarterfinals. While the victory was worth celebrating, the team’s overall performance fell short of expectations, drawing severe criticism from the media, with manager Gareth Southgate being the main target.
The Daily Mail commented after the match, “Comeback Kings! Bellingham and Kane combine to drag the Three Lions back from the brink, avoiding potential embarrassment. Despite tactical shortcomings, the resilience, determination, and passion of the English players cannot be questioned.”
The Sun described the win as a “Great Escape,” pointing fingers at Southgate’s substitutions: “Southgate waited an hour into the match to make changes, while the much-anticipated Phil Foden had an underwhelming game and was even offside when he had a chance to level the score, raising eyebrows.”
The Mirror compared Harry Kane’s late winner to a “Houdini act,” highlighting England’s lingering issues: “Kane’s extra-time goal, along with Bellingham’s last-gasp bicycle kick, ensured England’s survival in the tournament, but the team’s problems are glaring, and their progress looks fragile.”
Goal.com praised Bellingham’s heroic display: “Bellingham’s legend continues to grow, with his 95th-minute overhead kick proving to be England’s lifeline. Even amidst struggles, this golden goal secures his place in the nation’s football history.”
Other European publications chimed in. Italy’s La Gazzetta dello Sport succinctly remarked, “Super Bellingham saves England.”
Il Corriere della Sera emphasized the dramatic nature of the match: “England stages a thrilling comeback, with Bellingham and Kane combining to send Slovakia packing.”
Marca elevated Bellingham to near-mythical status: “God bless Bellingham, whose performance has made him both a deity and a king in the hearts of English fans.”
El Mundo Deportivo acknowledged England’s last-ditch escape: “England relies on a moment of inspiration from Bellingham to avoid slipping towards elimination.”
French publications L’Équipe and RMC Sport also focused on Bellingham’s crucial intervention, describing it as a “masterpiece” and emphasizing England’s “last-minute reprieve.” Bellingham’s goal was hailed as a “savior for the nation.”
It’s clear that although England managed to survive, the victory exposed numerous issues within the team, particularly in tactics and player form. Bellingham’s heroics were undeniably instrumental in prolonging England’s Euro journey.
European Media Critiques England: Bellingham Saves the Day, Southgate Escapes Humiliation. Author：Sports UEFA.Please indicate the source when reproduced：https://www.sportsuefa.com/football-world/13260.html
