Bellingham and Kane Rescue England, but Challenges Persist for Southgate

GELSENKIRCHEN, Germany – Sometimes, it’s better to be lucky than skilled. England narrowly escaped defeat against Slovakia with a 2-1 win, thanks to individual brilliance rather than a solid game plan.

Many had already predicted Gareth Southgate’s departure as head coach. England fans were furious as they watched their team struggle to respond to Ivan Schranz’s 25th-minute goal. This was the fourth consecutive poor performance at Euro 2024, nearly leading to an early exit from a tournament they were expected to win.

But then, hope emerged.

Jude Bellingham saved the day with a stunning overhead kick in the 95th minute, forcing extra time. Just a minute into extra time, Harry Kane scored, completing a remarkable comeback and setting up a quarterfinal match against Switzerland in Dusseldorf on Saturday.

While the win brings some relief, it doesn’t solve all of England’s problems. The two goals were more about luck than a winning strategy.

Kyle Walker’s long throw-in led to Bellingham’s magical moment, which was England’s first shot on target in 95 minutes against one of the weakest teams left in the tournament. The winning goal was also a bit fortunate. Cole Palmer’s free kick was punched out by Slovakia’s goalkeeper, Martin Dúbravka. Eberechi Eze’s shot bounced to Ivan Toney, who headed it to Kane for the close-range finish.

England showed great determination, but they still look like a team searching for answers. Southgate’s decisions, like playing Bukayo Saka at left-back or bringing Toney on in the final minute of normal time, seem more like desperate moves than a clear strategy. The two goals were a brief moment of success, but the overall performance remains concerning.

“There was a spirit and togetherness that has been building,” Southgate said. “We’ve had many problems to solve throughout this tournament. We’re finding ways to cope, giving young players opportunities, and somehow making it work. I know people will have mixed reactions, but we’re still in the competition. Our desire, commitment, and character can’t be questioned.”

Defender John Stones mentioned that England “can take the handbrake off and show ourselves,” hinting at the cautious approach Southgate is often criticized for.

“Tonight was an example of cup football,” Southgate responded. “Sometimes it’s about character, heart, and spirit. We didn’t defend well at the start and struggled to play through their press. It wasn’t about being cautious; we just couldn’t solve the problem of moving the ball forward.”

The upcoming game against Switzerland will present different challenges, but the core issue remains: England is still an unbalanced team struggling to play convincingly. Southgate can take some positives, like Kobbie Mainoo’s strong performance in midfield, which should earn him a spot on Saturday.

Palmer, Eze, and Toney were useful additions, but fans were frustrated with Southgate’s reluctance to make changes. He made only one substitution until the 84th minute, despite England needing an equalizer. Marc Guéhi’s early yellow card, caused by Kieran Trippier’s poor pass, means he will be suspended against Switzerland, adding to Southgate’s challenges.

Southgate’s problems are far from over, and the discontent among fans was growing before Bellingham’s crucial goal. Questions about his ability to get the best out of this talented squad remain.

For now, Southgate’s luck holds, and England’s path to the quarterfinals avoids facing France, Germany, Portugal, or Spain. There’s still time to get things right, but the clock is ticking.