By Tim Parsons-
Harry Kane led England to a triumphant 3-1 victory over Italy, in an enthralling game at Wembley Stadium in North West London.
The champions England intended to dethrone, wrapped up their spot in the prestigious European Championship with two matches to spare. It was a night filled with symbolism and scintillating football.
The drama began early when former West Ham striker Gianluca Scamacca’s strike pierced the hearts of England fans, serving as a painful reminder of the Euro 2020 final.
Italy had returned to Wembley, the scene of their penalty shootout victory, aiming to once again thwart England’s ambitions. However, the difference was clear in this all important game, as Gareth Southgate’s side displayed an air of confidence from the outset.
The pre-game jeopardy was long gone, and it was not a matter of if England would qualify, but when and where.
The fans at Wembley were ready to celebrate. England needed just a draw to secure their qualification, but Southgate had set his sights on more. He wanted a performance to boost collective belief, and his team delivered it.
At the heart of this resounding performance was Jude Bellingham, whose exceptional drive and determination illuminated the evening. His brilliance earned him a standing ovation when he was substituted late in the game.
Twice, he showcased his sheer determination, first winning a penalty that Harry Kane converted with power and precision, and then setting up Marcus Rashford for the crucial second goal.
Kane levelled from the spot with his 60th goal for his country just past the half hour after Di Lorenzo was penalised for bringing down Jude Bellingham.
The entire stadium watched in awe as Bellingham surged towards a breaking ball, proving that sometimes, belief alone can make things happen.
It felt like fate when Rashford netted the second goal. Kane, the England captain, later added the third, extending his impressive goal tally for his country to 61.
The final score of 3-1 sent waves of optimism through England as they now look ahead to Euro 2024 in Germany.
The ghosts of the Euro 2020 final were palpable in the atmosphere. The tension was amplified by Italy’s return to Wembley, the site of their triumph. Yet, it was also a reminder of the debt that England owed for that defeat, a part of the “payback” Kyle Walker referred to.
Southgate’s motivation was always clear—qualification was enough, but victory was preferred.
His strongest lineup reflected this mindset, with standout selections such as Kalvin Phillips over Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield, and Harry Maguire over Marc Guéhi in central defense.
The injured Luke Shaw and Bukayo Saka would have been the only contenders if fit.
The early stages of the game were marked by an English strut and a string of one-on-one victories, with an unfortunate yellow card for Phillips for his mistimed tackle.
However, the game took an unexpected turn when Italy struck first, marking their return to Wembley with a goal that temporarily silenced the home crowd.
The mood in the stadium shifted as England found themselves trailing, and there was a palpable sense of frustration.
The early setback only fueled the determination of the England team. Jude Bellingham, England’s engine in midfield, changed the course of the game.
With his lightning-fast surge towards the ball, he earned the penalty that Kane calmly converted to level the score.
The first half saw England looking vulnerable in defense, with John Stones displaying rustiness from a lack of playing time this season. Destiny Udogie’s late attempt should have served as a warning, but Jordan Pickford was up to the task.
As the second half began, England were at a crossroads. A draw would have sufficed for qualification, but the team and the fans desired more.
Bellingham, deployed in the No. 10 role, seized the opportunity, showcasing confidence and an unwavering desire to push the team forward.
Bellingham’s impact was profound. He orchestrated a counter-attack, setting up Rashford, who expertly dispatched the ball into the net. Italy, deflated, saw their hopes dashed further as Phillips narrowly avoided a second yellow card.
Southgate made a timely substitution, bringing on Jordan Henderson, whose introduction was met with both cheers and boos.
England dominated the second half, with Bellingham continuing to be the orchestrator of the play.
His breathtaking touch led to Rashford’s sublime goal, cementing England’s place in Euro 2024.
As the final whistle blew, it was Harry Kane who had the last word, finding the net with a late strike.
England had secured their qualification for Euro 2024, and they did so with style and panache.
The journey of this England team, which has spanned six years, appears to be entering a new chapter, with Jude Bellingham at the forefront.
His composure and excellence on the field have brought a level of assurance that could potentially transform England from challengers to champions.
This victory was not just about securing qualification; it was about winning and looking ahead to Euro 2024 with confidence. England’s
domination over Italy, a historic major nation, showcased their evolution into an elite team.
The anticipation is now not only about reaching the tournament but also about conquering it.