Jude Bellingham Makes History, Surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo and Michael Owen in England’s Euro 2024 Victory

England midfielder Jude Bellingham eclipsed legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Michael Owen during a pivotal 1-0 victory over Serbia at Euro 2024. Coming off an extraordinary debut season with Real Madrid, where he secured La Liga, the Champions League, and the Spanish Super Cup, Bellingham was primed for the tournament.

Rested during England's warm-up matches against Bosnia-Herzegovina and Iceland, the 20-year-old was thrust into action for the opener against Serbia by Gareth Southgate. Bellingham’s decisive header, off a deflected cross from Bukayo Saka, sealed the win and etched his name in the record books.

The match saw England maintain a clean sheet and secure three points in Group C. At just 20 years and 353 days, Bellingham became the youngest player to compete in three major international tournaments, surpassing Michael Owen’s record of 22 years and 170 days, and Cristiano Ronaldo’s 23 years and 123 days.

Bellingham’s journey began at Euro 2020, where he made three substitute appearances as England reached the final. He was a key player in the 2022 World Cup, starting all five matches before England's quarter-final exit to France.

Adding to his historic achievements, Bellingham is now the first player to score for England in both major tournaments while playing club football outside of England. His goal against Serbia follows his scoring at the 2022 World Cup against Iran, aligning him with England greats like Bobby Charlton, Alan Shearer, Gary Lineker, and Bryan Robson as players who have scored the opening goal in two major competitions.

With four goals in 30 appearances for England, Bellingham looks forward to adding to his tally in the upcoming match against Denmark.