Jude Bellingham scored England’s opening goal against Iran
After Jude Bellingham played a pivotal part in the Three Lions’ 6-2 thrashing of Iran in their World Cup opener, England defender Kieran Trippier praised him as “unbelievable.”
Bellingham was immediately included in England’s starting lineup for the match on Monday at the Khalifa International Stadium. Gareth Southgate had partly taken the crowd by surprise by selecting an attack-oriented squad.
Their aggressive approach paid off, as did Bellingham’s inclusion; he scored England’s first goal just beyond the half-hour mark with a beautiful header following a distinctive late run into the area, becoming the country’s second-youngest World Cup goalscorer of all time.
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Jude Bellingham contributed to the move that led to Raheem Sterling’s 3-0 goal and he also helped Callum Wilson when the Newcastle United striker set up Jack Grealish’s late goal. Bellingham also helped Raheem Sterling make it 3-0.
Trippier was in awe of Bellingham, who brought drive and purpose to an England midfield that was frequently criticized for being too negative.
“Bellingham is an unbelievable player for such a young age,” he told BBC Radio 5 Live.
“He is playing at such a high level and he is not afraid. He’s got to keep his feet on the ground and keep performing at a high level, like I know he will.”
For England, Bukayo Saka stood out as well thanks to two goals that were quite well-taken. It was the first time in World Cup history that England had two players aged 21 or younger score in a single game, and Trippier was pleased by the effect of the Three Lions’ youthful players.
