Real Madrid's golden boy continued his insane club form on the international stage, stealing the show at Wembley
No matter how many times it's brought up, it still boggles that mind that Jude Bellingham is only 20. The latest chapter in the generational talent's likely-to-be legendary career was dominating a 3-1 victory for England over Italy at Wembley Stadium. Bellingham was sublime throughout, with the result booking the Three Lions' place at Euro 2024.
Italy drew first blood in the contest, with some sloppy home defending eventually allowing West Ham flop Gianluca Scamacca to smash home from inside the box.
The Bellingham-led revival began shortly after, though. First, the midfielder won the spot-kick that Harry Kane emphatically converted. Then, after the break, he burst through midfield a second time to lay off for Marcus Rashford, who put England ahead with a fine finish.
Perhaps conscious that the Three Lions' new hero was getting a lot of attention, Kane made sure his name wasn't forgotten by brushing off Italy defender Giorgio Scalvini before lifting the ball cheekily over Gianluigi Donnarumma 13 minutes from time.
GOAL rates Gareth Southgate's players from Wembley…
Goalkeeper & Defence
Jordan Pickford (6/10):
Not tested that frequently. He organised and distributed effectively for the most part.
Kyle Walker (6/10):
Solid defensively but rarely ventured into the final third.
John Stones (5/10):
Surprisingly uncomfortable throughout. Was slow to react for the first goal and was skinned by Destiny Udogie on the stroke of half-time. Subbed for Guehi on the hour.
Harry Maguire (6/10):
Questions can be asked of him for Italy's goal, but he did not stand out as a liability as he has too often in the recent past.
Kieran Trippier (6/10):
Looked comfortable when Italy ran at him and had a few moments going forward.
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Declan Rice (5/10):
Not his best game. A little bit loose in his passing on occasion.
Kalvin Phillips (6/10):
Booked early for a clumsy lunge as he shook off some rustiness, having barely played since his move to Manchester City. Tasked with covering the space left by Bellingham and had one or two awkward moments.
Jude Bellingham (8/10):
Handed significant freedom by Southgate and did not disappoint. Won the penalty and assisted the second in stunning fashion as he sumptuously looped the ball over an opponent in midfield.
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Phil Foden (6/10):
Seemed a little too eager to go to the ball early on. Had more success as things progressed, firing off a few shots and getting in behind the Italy defence.
Harry Kane (8/10):
Scored from the spot, as usual. The run and finish for his second goal was excellent.
Marcus Rashford (7/10):
Underwhelmed in the first half, but netted a superb goal after the break, leaving Donnarumma stranded.
Subs & Manager
Marc Guehi (7/10):
Created Kane's goal with a clever clip into the channel.
Jordan Henderson (6/10):
Didn't get booed as loudly as he did during the Australia friendly. As for on the pitch, he was fine.
Gareth Southgate (7/10):
Has received criticism for being too 'safe' in the past, but against a European great like Italy he risked letting Bellingham off the leash and was handsomely rewarded.