- The English superstar scored at the death to rescue extra time against Slovakia
- Viral video shows Jude Bellingham making an X gesture after scoring
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Jude Bellingham spoke out after he was seen making what appeared to be a rude gesture towards the Slovakia bench after scoring in injury time to rescue England’s Euro 2024 hopes.
The 21-year-old was the Three Lions’ hero when he scored late with a stunning overhead kick that snuck through a crowded area and past a desperately stretching Martin Dubravka.
Bellingham led wild celebrations as he was mobbed by teammates who feared he was exiting the tournament in embarrassing circumstances before his goal.
The midfield star appeared to shout “It’s him” amid the celebrations and was seen signaling in the direction of the Slovakia bench as England found their footing at the last possible moment.
A viral post on social media shows Bellingham walking alongside England captain Harry Kane, who scored the winner early in extra time.
Jude Bellingham was reportedly seen making a rude X-rated gesture towards the Slovakia bench after scoring late in England’s win.
Bellingham was England’s saviour when his last-gasp overhead kick sent the match into extra time.
The brief interaction shows the Three Lions leader first bringing his hand to his mouth before moving it to his groin and performing a series of movements.
Bellingham looks in one direction while celebrating while walking across the Gelsenkirchen pitch, but has now confirmed his actions were aimed at the Slovakia dugout.
Taking to social media after the win, Bellingham clarified the situation, stating: “It was an inside joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game.
“Nothing but respect for the way the Slovak team played tonight.”
The moment was a strange reaction from Bellingham, who has been praised for his maturity and calmness within the England ranks despite being one of their youngest players.
Speaking after the match, he hit out at critics who have been disappointed by Gareth Southgate’s team’s performances at Euro 2024.
“It’s been a good win, I’m through to the next round and I’m really happy. The last week has been tough, trying to keep the negative energy out of the training ground,” he told ITV.
Bellingham (right) appears to gesture towards his groin as he walks onto the pitch.
Bellingham later praised England for coming from behind in Gelsenkirchen to beat Slovakia in their last-16 tie.
Meanwhile, ugly scenes at full-time saw Slovakia coach Francesco Calzona clash with fellow Bellingham midfielder Declan Rice immediately after England’s victory.
Television footage captured Calzona pushing Rice after approaching referee Umut Meler after the final whistle.
The England star took offense and was seen gesticulating furiously and hurling expletives at Calzona before Ivan Toney pulled him away.
Rice was then seen telling the Slovak coaches and substitutes to shut up as Toney and Ezri Konsa removed him from the situation.