Jude Bellingham says England looked ‘dead and buried’ against Slovakia at Euro 2024, praises ‘Uncle Marc’ Guehi

Jude Bellingham has reflected on the “emotional rollercoaster” he experienced following his sensational overhead kick equaliser for England against Slovakia in the round of 16 of the 2024 European Championships.

Shortly before the final whistle, England seemed to be eliminated from the tournament, but a brilliant equaliser from the Real Madrid player in the 95th minute forced the game into extra time.

“It was really an emotional rollercoaster and probably not the most pleasant way to win a game,” he said.

“You want to feel comfortable and in control, but you have to find ways to win, even if that means doing bicycle kicks in 90 plus five minutes.”

“The emotional difference is massive. One minute you’re dead and buried, the next you see the Slovakian bank ready to move on and you feel a bit disheartened and devastated.”

“I would have liked a different ending. I’m having a great time here with the guys and the staff and a moment later everything changes.

“You start to believe that we can still create a chance and fortunately we took it.”

Bellingham also found time to praise his teammate Marc Guehi, who passed the ball to him for him to convert.

“Marc probably made the best header in English history and he will never take credit for it but it is important that he knows how grateful I and the team are for his contribution,” added Bellingham.

“He’s the most humble guy. He thought I’d let him get away with a little handshake, but he just set the ball rolling on the most important goal of my life.

“It’s really important to me to give flowers to people, especially when they’ve been as good as he has been so far in this tournament.

“He’s only a little bit older than me, but when you talk to him or are around him, you get the impression that he’s 40 and has had three careers!

“He’s such a nice guy, you forget his physical presence and the game against him. Whenever I see him heading the ball, I think, that’s the nice Marc, and then boom, that’s the not so nice Marc!

“He’s a brilliant guy, Uncle Marc!”