Serbia v England - live: Euro 2024 result and reaction as Jordan Pickford saves Three Lions in nervy win

Jude Bellingham’s early header was just about enough for England to beat Serbia 1-0 in their Euro 2024 opener as they ground out victory in a contest they initially dominated.

England took the lead in the 13th minute when Bellingham burst into the six-yard box to power home a header from a deflected Bukayo Saka cross, finishing off a move that the 20-year-old maestro launched himself deep in midfield.

Gareth Southgate’s side controlled possession but struggled to turn their domination into scoring opportunities against a Serbia side who defended deep and ended the first half with no goal attempts at the Arena AufSchalke in Gelsenkirchen.

Serbia looked livelier in the second half and Jordan Pickford was forced to brilliantly tip Dusan Vlahovic’s effort over the bar to preserve the lead, after opposite number Predrag Rajkovic had made a stunning reflex save that bounced off the crossbar to keep out a Harry Kane close-range header.

Relive all the action from England vs Serbia below:

Serbia vs England - Euro 2024 LIVE

• England begin Euro 2024 campaign by edging past Serbia 1-0

• Jude Bellingham scores in the first half and Jordan Pickford saves Three Lions at the end

• REPORT: Jude Bellingham is Gareth Southgate’s cheat code but other issues stifle England

• PLAYER RATINGS: Marc Guehi and Jude Bellingham shine in nervy win

• FULL-TIME! Serbia 0-1 England

• 82’ - SAVE! Pickford superbly tips Vlahovic shot over the bar (SER 0-1 ENG)

• 77’ - CROSSBAR! Kane’s header tipped on to the bar after Bowen cross (SER 0-1 ENG)

• HALF-TIME! Serbia 0-1 England - Three Lions dominant in first 45 minutes

• 13’ - GOAL! Bellingham powers a header past Rajkovic to give England the lead (SER 0-1 ENG)

Serbia 0 - 1 England

Jude Bellingham is Gareth Southgate’s cheat code but other issues stifle England

Sunday 16 June 2024 22:30 , Chris Wilson

A flawless record continues, with some blemishes. Gareth Southgate’s England again won a tournament opening game, on the fourth of four such occasions. This occasionally awkward 1-0 win over Serbia certainly wasn’t to the level of Germany’s 5-1 thrashing of Scotland, and will raise new questions over what England need to do to get that level. Jude Bellingham, naturally the match-winner, is one of the few parts of this team where there is absolutely no doubt. His early headed goal was the perfect illustration of that. Beyond that, though, Southgate has a bit to think about.

He knew that himself, of course. The England manager warned on the eve of the game that not every team would start like Germany, and made a point of stating the number of issues he has inherited going into Euro 2024.

Any tournament is a voyage of discovery in that regard, but Southgate still has a lot to figure out.

Jude Bellingham is Gareth Southgate’s cheat code but other issues stifle England

FT: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 22:45 , Chris Wilson

Harry Kane was first to speak to BBC after the game. He says that England “knew it was going to be a tough game”.

“Serbia pose some good threats and have some good players. They will make it a battle for you and I think we dealt with it really well. There was a spell in the second half where we got camped in our box and we found it difficult to get out but overall I think we deserved the result, and it was an important win tonight.

“It’s a tough game. They are a good team and have good players, they have a good structure. We stood up to it well, a clean sheet in every game is important, and it is good to get the three points and [for us] to progress. It’s good that we got the win today.”

He goes on to call Jude Bellingham “an unbelievable player”, before adding that “each game will be different”.

“I think today for me it was more about holding the ball up, winning fouls and trying to see the game out like we did.”

England vs Serbia player ratings as Marc Guehi and Jude Bellingham shine in nervy win

Sunday 16 June 2024 22:20 , Chris Wilson

England got their Euro 2024 campaign up and running with an opening win win over Serbia in Gelsenkirchen.

Jude Bellingham’s powerful header put Gareth Southgate’s side into an early advantage during a first half that they largely controlled, and while a second-half wobble gave their opponents hope, England held firm defensively to secure a valuable three points in Group C.

Midfielder Bellingham was one of England’s best throughout, utilised from a deeper role alongside Declan Rice and Trent Alexander-Arnold as Southgate seeks to maximise the considerable attacking talent in his squad.

But which other players stood out in the win? Here’s how the England players rated in Gelsenkirchen:

England vs Serbia player ratings as Marc Guehi and Jude Bellingham shine in nervy win

Looking ahead

Sunday 16 June 2024 22:15 , Chris Wilson

England’s next game is against Denmark in Frankfurt on Thursday, 20 June. It kicks off at 5pm BST.

For Serbia, their next match comes against Slovenia at the Allianz Arena in Munich. It begins at 2pm BST on 20 June.

The final round of fixtures in the group comes on Tuesday 25 June, with both games kicking off at 8pm BST.

Group C standings

Sunday 16 June 2024 22:10 , Chris Wilson

Here’s a look at the Group C table after the first round of fixtures.

1 - England - 3 points, GD +1

2 - Denmark - 1 points, GD 0

3 - Slovenia - 1 points, GD 0

4 - Serbia - 0 points, GD -1

Sunday 16 June 2024 22:05 , Chris Wilson

FULL-TIME: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:58 , Chris Wilson

A composed first half was followed by a somewhat worrying second from England, and the drop-off between the first team and the subs was evident in some cases.

England failed to control the game despite their early lead, and they never capitalised on that lead either. That performance certainly hasn’t sent a message to Germany, Spain or France.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:55 , Chris Wilson

95 mins

FULL-TIME! The referee blows the whistle and England get the job done. Three points are really all that matters, but they’ll come in to some criticism tomorrow.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:54 , Chris Wilson

93 mins

Another vital England free-kick as Kane gets in front of the defender before being brought down. Pickford will go long into the corner.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:53 , Chris Wilson

93 mins

Serbia with another worrying counter as Tadic sweeps it wide, but it ends with Bowen blocking and then clearing it straight to a red shirt.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:52 , Chris Wilson

91 mins

Gallagher wins a vital free-kick in the Serbia half as he’s first to a loose ball. There’ll be no rush to take this.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:51 , Chris Wilson

90 mins

Shaky stuff from England here, but they’re keeping the ball well at the moment. Kane drops deep to collect before recycling it to Gallagher, before Foden looks to create something with a ball over the top to Trippier, which is cut out.

There’ll be four minutes of added time.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:49 , Chris Wilson

87 mins

Foden wins a foul on the counter and there’s brief respite, but England give it away cheaply.

England drop deep, and Mladenovic swings in a cross that’s cleared. England have a break soon again though, as Milinkovic-Savic arrows a shot wide from distance.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:46 , Chris Wilson

85 mins

England manage to keep the ball for a couple of minutes, but it ends with some poor play.

Bellingham is replaced by Kobbie Mainoo.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:44 , Chris Wilson

82 mins

The corner bounces out to Mladenović, who hits it into the ground and towards goal, but Kane is there to head clear before England win the free-kick.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:42 , Chris Wilson

81 mins

Gallagher is penalised for what looked like a fair challenge, and Serbia have possession again.

Moments later, Stones’ header drops to Vlahovic, who chooses to shoot from distance, and Pickford tips it over the bar! Great effort.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:40 , Chris Wilson

79 mins

Trippier is down on the far end of the pitch, and it’s a worry for Southgate. He limps off, but it looks like he’ll be okay to continue.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:38 , Chris Wilson

77 mins

CLOSE! Almost an instant impact from Bowen! He beats his man down the right and plays in a lovely cross, which Harry Kane meets with his head and directs goalwards. It looks like a certain goal, but Rajkovic palms it onto the bar and out!

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:36 , Chris Wilson

75 mins

Dusan Tadic is booked for scything down Foden. Jarrod Bowen looks ready to come on, and he replaces Bukayo Saka.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:34 , Chris Wilson

73 mins

England’s turn to have some sustained possession, and they work it from Foden back to Stones. The fans are in fine voice as we approach the final 15 minutes.

Serbia make a change as Veljko Birmancevic comes on for Zivkovic.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:32 , Chris Wilson

71 mins

Pickford races out of goal to punch clear a dangerous ball in, and England have some respite as they win a goal kick.

England win a free-kick midway into the Serbia half, which Foden delivers. It’s headed out to Saka, who swings a cross to the back post, but Rice’s header back across deflects to Rajkovic.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:30 , Chris Wilson

69 mins

The pressure stays on for England as Rice hits it out of play as the Three Lions tried to play out from the back.

Southgate replies by taking off Alexander-Arnold for Conor Gallagher.

A decent performance overall from the Liverpool man in midfield.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:28 , Chris Wilson

67 mins

Almost brilliant from Bellingham as he beats Ilic before hanging in a cross, but it’s too close to the ‘keeper.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:27 , Chris Wilson

66 mins

Kane does well to hold up the ball in the Serbia half, winning the foul and taking some pressure off England.

England work it well down the right and Alexander-Arnold wins a corner. The Liverpool man delivers, but Rajković punches it clear.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:25 , Chris Wilson

64 mins

A great one-two from Serbia ends with Milinkovic-Savic swinging in a cross, but it’s too deep.

Serbia dominating possession now, and Tadic slips a through ball to Jovic, but his touch just runs away from him.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:22 , Chris Wilson

62 mins

Serbia make two changes, as former Real Madrid man Luka Jovic replaces Mitrovic, and Dusan Tadic replaces Lukic.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:20 , Chris Wilson

60 mins

Dangerous attack from Serbia as Mladenović is found on the overlap. He races into the box and beats Stones for pace, but the City man does brilliantly to get a touch to take the pace off the ball, and Trippier shepherds Mitrovic off it before Pickford collects.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:18 , Chris Wilson

58 mins

Alexander-Arnold tries drilling it through the middle to Kane, but it runs to Rajković.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:17 , Chris Wilson

56 mins

Serbia have had the better of the possession so far this half, but England attack as Trippier collects it from a long diagonal.

Rice slips it through to Alexander-Arnold on the right, and his cutback finds Bellingham, who is dispossessed just before shooting.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:15 , Chris Wilson

54 mins

Foden thinks he’s fouled as England attack, but Serbia get the throw and possession once more, until Milinkovic-Savic wastes it with a pass behind the England defence that rolls out play.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:13 , Chris Wilson

51 mins

Pickford has to react quickly to clear it long as Serbia looked to pounce. Serbia win it back, and it’s clipped in to Vlahovic in the box. He takes it down well and fizzes a ball across the box, which narrowly misses Mladenovic.

A much more positive start to this half from the eastern European side.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:09 , Chris Wilson

48 mins

Good play from Rice again to nip in and win the ball on the edge of the England area. England try and counter but Saka is too isolated.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:08 , Chris Wilson

47 mins

Referee Daniele Orsato is in the way of Kane’s ball wide, and England have a drop ball, but Serbia win it back after Bellingham tries to skip through.

KICK-OFF: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:05 , Chris Wilson

KICK-OFF! We’re back underway in Gelsenkirchen for a vital second half in England’s Euro 2024 campaign.

HT: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:04 , Chris Wilson

England had three shots in that half, with just the one on target, and 55 per cent of possession.

It was a composed performance but fans will be demanding a little more, especially after the performances of Spain and Germany over the last two days.

The teams are back out of the tunnel at the Arena AufSchalke.

HT: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 21:00 , Chris Wilson

The BBC studio is full of superlatives when describing Bellingham’s performance so far, and they’re full of praise for Walker too. They’re maybe at risk of getting carried away after a 1-0 in the first 45 against Serbia.

An impressive performance from England in parts, and they are deserving of their lead, but – aside from Saka in parts – they arguably haven’t created enough.

Kane will be wanting to get into the game more, as will Foden; if they do, then we could see a more emphatic scoreline.

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:57 , Chris Wilson

HALF-TIME: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:55 , Chris Wilson

A composed half from England, and the job is half done. Bellingham, Saka and Guehi have probably been the most impressive so far, with Rice assured as usual. Alexander-Arnold has had a mixed game in midfield, with some impressive flashes.

Serbia haven’t offered much in attack but the threat of Vlahovic and Mitrovic remains.

More of the same needed in the second half from the Three Lions.

HALF-TIME: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:50 , Chris Wilson

47 mins

Serbia waste a chance as the chipped ball in is well past Vlahovic. Serbia are keeping possession, and they work it to the right wing before a cross lands at the feet of John Stones, who scuffs his clearance out for a corner.

From the corner, Bellingham clears and the half-time whistle goes.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:47 , Chris Wilson

45 mins

Kostic has had to come off, and he’ll be replaced by Mladenovic.

Play resumes again with a Serbia throw, but England regain possession quickly. Both sides look happy for the half to finish at this stage.

There’ll be at least two minutes of added time.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:43 , Chris Wilson

40 mins

The ball is out of play as Kostic is down.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:40 , Chris Wilson

38 mins

Serbia attack with Kostic’s cross, but Rice is there to head away, and the Arsenal man is there once more after Trippier is beaten down the left flank.

We have the first booking of the day for Gudelj after he brings down Bellingham.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:38 , Chris Wilson

36 mins

Now it’s Bellingham’s turn to defend as he nicks it off the foot of Vlahovic. England counter and it’s brilliant from Saka again, as he runs as Pavlovic, beats him and cuts another inviting cross back, but it’s just behind Kane.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:36 , Chris Wilson

34 mins

Zivkovic delivers a dangerous ball into the England box but Guehi is there again to head away. A great performance from the Palace man so far.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:32 , Chris Wilson

30 mins

Alexander-Arnold opts to shoot but it hits the wall. England are quick to win it back though, with Rice at the centre of things once more.

Saka gets away down the right once more and clips in another ball, but this one is headed away.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:31 , Chris Wilson

28 mins

Kane continues his battle with Milenkovic and this time he loses, conceding a free-kick. Serbia are in possession, but they’re offering very little in attack if they’re not on the counter.

Lovely play from Saka and Alexander-Arnold as they exchange passes before the latter sets the Arsenal winger off with a ball over the top, and it ends with England winning a free-kick near the edge of the box.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:27 , Chris Wilson

25 mins

CLOSE! Alexander-Arnold intercepts Vlahovic’s pass in central midfield to start the counter, and Saka feeds the overlapping Walker. He drives into the box but his cross narrowly misses an England shirt.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:25 , Chris Wilson

23 mins

Nice defending from Guehi as he stands up Vlahovic and eventually blocks his shot from range.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:23 , Chris Wilson

22 mins

Saka does well to hold it up with his back to goal and win a free-kick in a dangerous area. Alexander-Arnold delivers an inviting ballin, which ends up bouncing off Rice and out for a goal kick. Looks like he expected the man in front of him to get the touch.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:22 , Chris Wilson

20 mins

A mix-up from Stones and Walker gives Serbia possession, but they’re forced to go backwards.

There’s a chance from nowhere for Serbia as Alexander-Arnold’s touch is poor on the edge of the England box, and it runs to Mitrovic. He drags his shot wide though, and it’s a let-off for England.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:20 , Chris Wilson

18 mins

Lovely sliding tackle from Guehi to dispossess Vlahovic and start an England counter. It ends with Foden shipping it wide to Alexander-Arnold, who drags a shot wide of the far post.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:18 , Chris Wilson

15 mins

Serbia are still happy to sit back despite going behind. England take them up on the invitation, but a period of sustained possession ends when Bellingham can’t bring down Pickford’s long ball.

GOAL! Serbia 0-1 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:15 , Chris Wilson

13 mins

GOAL! Who else?

Great play from Walker to play a pass behind the defender to the overlapping Saka. His cross is deflected a little but it ends up being perfect, as Bellingham flies in to power the header into the back of the net.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-0 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:14 , Chris Wilson

10 mins

John Stones loses a cheap foul in the Serbia box just as a long diagonal lands at the feet of Rice.

England regain possession quickly, but they’re forced to recycle it back to Stones.

As expected, Bellingham is spending plenty of time sitting between the Serbia defence and midfield, and swapping with Foden when needed.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-0 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:11 , Chris Wilson

9 mins

Bellingham wins a foul but the free-kick is taken quickly, and England keep possession, before Rice just loses it for a throw after miscontrolling it.

Serbia give it away straight away though, with Bellingham using his body well to win another free-kick.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-0 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:08 , Chris Wilson

7 mins

Kostic skips past Walker before clipping in a cross, but it’s too deep for anyone in a red shirt.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-0 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:07 , Chris Wilson

5 mins

Serbia have barely had the ball in the opening five minutes, but England are yet to create anything of note as Foden fails to control it in the box before skewing a shot behind for a goal kick.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-0 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:05 , Chris Wilson

3 mins

Plenty of boos around the Veltins as England hold onto the ball. England win the first free-kick and it’ll be Alexander-Arnold’s first chance to deliver, but it’s headed away and England recycle possession.

Euro 2024: Serbia 0-0 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:03 , Chris Wilson

1 min

Stones lets Vlhaovic know he’s there early on, which is greeted by cheers from England fans.

England start with some calm, sustained possession.

KICK-OFF! Serbia 0-0 England

Sunday 16 June 2024 20:02 , Chris Wilson

KICK-OFF! And England get us underway after the captains exchange pennants! This is it.

Serbia vs England - Euro 2024 LIVE

Sunday 16 June 2024 19:59 , Chris Wilson

It’s a brilliant atmosphere at the Veltins Arena as both national anthems are belted out. We’re moments from kick-off in Gelsenkirchen as the teams take their place in each half.

Serbia vs England - Euro 2024 LIVE

Sunday 16 June 2024 19:58 , Chris Wilson

Gareth Southgate also spoke to BBC before the game, saying that this game is “a fantastic challenge”.

“We have been getting excited about the games that have already been played and of course now we have the chance to put our mark down and we are raring to go.

“Trent offers a different passing option, he has a fantastic range. Looks like we are facing a back five so we won’t have much space to work in to break the opposition down. Jude will operate as he normally does. This season he has found the right moments to arrive in the box and has been really clinical with his finishing, so he just has to keep doing what he has been doing.“

Serbia vs England - Euro 2024 LIVE

Sunday 16 June 2024 19:55 , Chris Wilson

Around five minutes until kick-off in Gelsenkirchen.

England need the three points as they bid for an easier round of 16 game, but perhaps of equal importance is the overall level of the performance.

With Germany and Spain setting down markers with impressive performances in their opening game, will Southgate’s side click and show the continent what they’re really capable of?

Serbia vs England - Euro 2024 LIVE

Sunday 16 June 2024 19:53 , Chris Wilson

Declan Rice briefly spoke to the BBC pre-game, and he says that England fans “will see a different side” to Trent Alexander-Arnold tonight.

“He is ready and raring to go. Not a lot of people see this but he has so much energy and enthusiasm in midfield.

“He loves to get about the midfield, I will be speaking to him to make sure we keep disciplined in there. I think it is a midfield trio fans can be excited about.”

Sunday 16 June 2024 19:50 , Chris Wilson

Arena AufSchalke

Sunday 16 June 2024 19:45 , Chris Wilson

A brilliant venue for England’s opening game. Not great memories here though – this is where England exited the 2006 World Cup at the hands of Portugal.

That was England’s second tournament exit in a row to Portugal (after Euro 2004), and Ronaldo’s attempts to get Rooney sent off caused much furore back in England.

Hopefully better memories tonight! England will play their Round of 16 game here too if they finish first in the group.

The lingering England questions that Euro 2024 opener against Serbia will answer

Sunday 16 June 2024 19:40 , Chris Wilson

Euro 2024 is already developing into a tournament lit up by exciting young talent. Now it’s England’s turn as Gareth Southgate unleashes his new-look side on Sunday night.

On Friday night, as Germany were setting a pace for their tournament by thrashing Scotland, Gareth Southgate gathered the England squad for a meeting. The theme of this was more reflective, almost a final mission statement before it all begins. Southgate spoke about the tournaments they’ve already been through and the lessons that his staff and senior players have taken. That’s more important than usual, given that 12 of the 26 have never even been in this situation before. Southgate did also point to how some elements from the past that have served England well can now be discarded.

That doesn’t really apply to opening games, though. England actually have a fine record in such matches under Southgate, that has actually improved with each tournament. In 2018, there was the late 3-1 win over Tunisia. In Euro 2020, there was a professional – and vengeful – victory over Croatia. In 2022, there was the 6-2 evisceration of Iran. England were almost the Germany of that tournament.

As to whether Southgate’s team can follow the hosts on Sunday, in the way Spain did by destroying Croatia, as well as their own trend, that is another unknown about this first match against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen. It is why this feels more portentous than any of those two previous opening games, maybe the most telling since Tunisia.

We’ll get a sense of what this new England are. Duly, after a lot of rumination over the past few weeks, Southgate at least seems to have an idea of what his starting XI will be.

The lingering England questions that Euros opener against Serbia will answer

England have ditched their recipe for success with Euro 2024 Gareth Southgate’s biggest gamble of all

Sunday 16 June 2024 19:35 , Chris Wilson

In the final few sessions before Euro 2024, Gareth Southgate has been keen to ensure England’s raft of new attackers are properly up to speed with some of the team’s rehearsed moves. He can see the full picture, but the lines are still a little blurred. This team doesn’t yet have the connections visible in Euro 2020 qualifying, say, but it’s promising. How couldn’t it be promising with Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane? Southgate is unusually excited.

Such “automatisms” - where attackers instinctively execute moves from repeated rehearsal - are one of those parts of preparation that say a lot about the whole. England have been coming close to the line in a similar way.

Euro 2024 had long been looked upon as one of the tournaments when the entire St George’s Park project should finally deliver a trophy.

This may well be Southgate’s last campaign, further fostering a sense of culmination. Even the last tournament before this seemed to outline the final step that is required, as England lost to France in the 2022 World Cup quarter-final by the narrowest margins. Since Kylian Mbappe’s side have been heralded as the best in Europe, the presumption is that you win against them and you win the tournament.

Except now, so close to the line, it’s all a little blurred.

England have ditched their plan with Euro 2024 Southgate’s biggest gamble of all

England’s route to Euro 2024 final and possible knockout opponents

Sunday 16 June 2024 19:30 , Chris Wilson

Though it’s a little premature, here’s a reminder of England’s potential route to the final (if everything goes to plan).

England begin Euro 2024 in Group C and will hope to navigate a set of fixtures that looks kind on paper – with Denmark, Slovenia and Serbia lying in wait.

From there, things should get harder but if England can top Group C then a third-placed qualifier from either Group D, E or F will be their opponents in the last 16, before a quarter-final potentially against Germany, Spain or Italy. Win that and they would be just two victories away from glory.

Below is a closer look at England’s possible route to the final in Germany, and here are the latest odds and tips.

England’s route to Euro 2024 final and possible knockout opponents

Form guide

Sunday 16 June 2024 19:25 , Chris Wilson

England have had a similarly mixed few months since qualifying for Euro 2024, though the Three Lions did top a group that also contained Italy.

Southgate’s side earned 20 points and lost no matches during qualifying, but lost 1-0 to Brazil and drew 2-2 with Belgium in two friendlies in March.

They started their tournament warm-up with a 3-0 win against Bosnia and Herzegovina, before labouring to a 1-0 loss against Iceland in their final game on 7 June.

The Three Lions are one of the tournament favourites, but their European Championship history suggests that Southgate’s side will have a difficult time if they are to scale the heights of European football.

Form guide

Sunday 16 June 2024 19:20 , Chris Wilson

Both sides have had mixed form coming into this Euros opener.

Serbia finished second in a qualifying group that contained Hungary. They gained 14 points, having won four, drawn two and lost two of their games.

In their last five games, they have won one, drawn two and lost two. They drew 2-2 with Bulgaria in their last qualification game, before beating Cyprus 1-0 and losing 4-0 to Russia in March friendlies.

In their warm-up games, they lost 2-1 to Austria before beating Sweden 3-0 on 8 June.

Head-to-head

Sunday 16 June 2024 19:15 , Chris Wilson

England have never played an independent Serbia before, though they did face Serbia and Montenegro in an international friendly in 2003 (and the Three Lions also played Yugoslavia on several occasions).

Steven Gerrard and Joe Cole scored the goals in a 2-1 in that match, on the same night that John Terry made his debut.

Line-ups

Sunday 16 June 2024 19:08 , Chris Wilson

The big news for England is that Trent Alexander-Arnold starts alongside Declan Rice in midfield. In the absence of Harry Maguire, Marc Guehi starts at centre-back alongside John Stones.

The rest of the eleven is as expected, with the other news being that Luke Shaw is fit enough to make the bench.

It’s four changes from the side that lost to Iceland in the final warm-up game, with Pickford replacing Ramsdale, while Alexander-Arnold comes in for Mainoo and Palmer and Bowen are replaced on the wings by Foden and Saka.

Line-ups

Sunday 16 June 2024 19:03 , Chris Wilson

SERBIA XI: Rajkovic; Milenkovic, Veljkovic, Pavlovic; Zivkovic, S.Milinkovic-Savic, Lukic, Gudelj, Kostic; Mitrovic, Vlahovic.

Line-ups

Sunday 16 June 2024 18:56 , Chris Wilson

ENGLAND XI: Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi, Trippier; Rice, Alexander-Arnold; Saka, Bellingham, Foden; Kane.

SUBS: Ramsdale, Henderson, Shaw, Dunk, Konsa, Gomez, Wharton, Mainoo, Gallagher, Eze, Toney, Gordon, Palmer, Bowen, Watkins.

Euro 2024 Group C guide: Fixtures, squads and star players to watch as England aim for glory

Sunday 16 June 2024 18:50 , Chris Wilson

Ahead of the line-ups being announced, here’s a guide to England’s group in Euro 2024.

England will attempt to go one better this time out in the European Championship than they managed three years ago on home soil, when they were beaten by Italy in the final. This time around Gareth Southgate has a much-changed squad and much-changed expectations on the team, as the Three Lions look to triumph at Euro 2024.

Before thoughts turn to the knockouts, though, they must navigate a solid-looking group stage. Alongside them will be Denmark, Slovenia and Iceland, each having real hopes of qualifying through the groups and each presenting different and difficult challenges to break them down in 90-minute encounters.

Euro 2024 Group C guide: Fixtures, squads and star players to watch

Gareth Southgate names England squad’s four-man ‘leadership group’ at Euro 2024

Sunday 16 June 2024 18:40 , Chris Wilson

Gareth Southgate has revealed young star Jude Bellingham is part of England’s new-look leadership group at Euro 2024.

The 20-year-old’s inexorable rise shows no signs of abating, with fine spells at boyhood team Birmingham and Borussia Dortmund followed by a dream start to life at Real Madrid.

Gareth Southgate names England squad’s four-man ‘leadership group’ at Euro 2024

Predicted starting line-ups

Sunday 16 June 2024 18:30 , Chris Wilson

England (4-2-3-1): Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi, Trippier; Alexander-Arnold, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Foden; Kane.

Serbia (3-5-2): V Milinkovic-Savic; Milenkovic, Veljkovic, Pavlovic; Zivkovic, S Milinkovic-Savic, Tadic, Lukic, Kostic; Mitrovic, Vlahovic.

Is England v Serbia on TV? Channel, start time and how to watch Euro 2024 game online tonight

Sunday 16 June 2024 18:20 , Chris Wilson

Just over 90 minutes until kick-off in Gelsenkirchen. The match kicks-off at 8pm BST on Sunday, at the Arena AufSchalke (also known as the Veltins Arena), which is the home of Schalke.

The match will be broadcast live on BBC One, with the programme beginning at 7pm.

Licence fee payers can stream the match online via the BBC’s iPlayer app and website.

ITV’s highlights show is scheduled for 11.20pm on itv1, while BBC One will show a full replay of the game at 12.45am.

You can find a full list of which channel is showing each match here.

If you’re travelling abroad and want to watch major sporting events, you might need a VPN to unblock your streaming app. Our VPN round-up is here to help and includes deals on VPNs in the market. Viewers using a VPN need to make sure that they comply with any local regulations where they are, and also with the terms of their service provider.

England v Serbia: TV channel, start time and how to watch online tonight

Euro 2024 predictions: Winner, Golden Boot, breakout star and more

Sunday 16 June 2024 18:10 , Chris Wilson

Can England finally get over the line under Gareth Southgate, three years after losing the delayed Euro 2020 final to Italy at Wembley? And if so, will Harry Kane claim his second international Golden Boot?

Or will a younger star steal the spotlight, as clubs and coaches around Europe keep an eye out for the ‘next big thing’ in the summer transfer market?

Below, we predict the teams, players and moments that could define Euro 2024. Without further ado...

Euro 2024 predictions: Winner, Golden Boot, breakout star and more

England vs Serbia referee: Who is Euro 2024 official Daniele Orsato?

Sunday 16 June 2024 18:00 , Chris Wilson

Daniele Orsato will take charge of England’s opening game of Euro 2024against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday night.

The experienced Italian official has taken charge of his last club game this season as he will retire from refereeing after this tournament.

The 48-year-old, a FIFA listed referee since 2010, burst into tears after refereeing his final Champions League game – the semi-final second-leg between PSG and Borussia Dortmund in May – and received a guard of honour from Atalanta and Fiorentina after his final Serie A match.

Orsato took charge of the 2020 Champions League final between PSG and Bayern Munich and was also the man in the middle for the Argentina-Croatia semi-final at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, with Croatia skipper Luka Modric later labelling the Italian’s display a “disaster.”

England vs Serbia referee: Who is Euro 2024 official Daniele Orsato?

Why Euro 2024 means more to Harry Kane – England’s unique soldier

Sunday 16 June 2024 17:50 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Mere hours after Harry Kane knew he would be ending another club season without a trophy, Bayern Munich made him and the rest of the squad attend a banquet. It wasn’t what most would have chosen to do after the bitter Champions League semi-final elimination to Real Madrid, but it is a custom for the German club.

It wasn’t the only new thing Kane had to endure. Although he has obviously experienced trophy disappointment on many occasions, it has never been when success was so expected. Kane had made the hard choice to leave Tottenham Hotspur for Bayern, only to suddenly find success wasn’t coming easy for the perennial German champions. It did hit him. The striker still registered this most painful of seasons – as he put it himself – in the way he always does. He internalised it and persevered. It was why the banquet suited him more than most. It helped him “get on with it”, in the way he always does.

Why Euro 2024 means more to Harry Kane – England’s unique soldier

FA has ‘succession plan’ already in place for Gareth Southgate’s England exit

Sunday 16 June 2024 17:40 , Miguel Delaney

The Football Association haven’t yet spoken to any potential successors to Gareth Southgate, nor received any approaches for the England manager, but say a succession plan is in place.

The 53-year-old has strongly suggested he will leave the role after Euro 2024 unless the team wins the competition, and even that may not keep him in the job. The FA will still seek to review the tournament as a whole no matter what happens, and would naturally be keen to keep Southgate on. That is a sentiment shared by the squad.

FA has ‘succession plan’ already in place for Gareth Southgate’s England exit

England’s route to Euro 2024 final and possible knockout opponents

Sunday 16 June 2024 17:30 , Sonia Twigg

For the optimistic England fans out there, here’s a possible route to the final for Gareth Southgate’s side...

England’s route to Euro 2024 final and possible knockout opponents

John Stones ready to guide England to Euro 2024 glory after setbacks, surprises and near-misses

Sunday 16 June 2024 17:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle

It has been a cruel few weeks for the senior players who have been the stalwarts of Gareth Southgate’s reign. They have been dropped and demoted, their feelings hurt sometimes while bodies have given way. John Stones had been a survivor of the Southgate cull, but there was a moment when it seemed he, too, would miss Euro 2024, as Richard Jolly explains.

John Stones ready to guide England to glory after setbacks, surprises and near-misses

Euro 2024: Full list of BBC and ITV pundits and commentators including Wayne Rooney and Roy Keane

Sunday 16 June 2024 17:10 , Harry Latham-Coyle

And here are the experts that viewers in the United Kingdom will enjoy it all in the company of.

Euro 2024: Full list of pundits, commentators and presenters on BBC and ITV

Euro 2024 fixtures: Schedule, dates and kick-off times at European Championship

Sunday 16 June 2024 17:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Miguel will have plenty to get his head around over the next few weeks - it’s a busy old summer of Euros action!

Euro 2024 fixtures: Full schedule, dates and kick-off times

Reading the Game With Miguel Delaney

Sunday 16 June 2024 16:50 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Want top football insight in your inbox every Friday throughout the Euros? Simply subscribe to Reading the Game as our chief football writer Miguel Delaney makes sense of the chaotic world that is modern football, offering exclusive analysis of all of the action on and off the pitch. The details you need are here:

Subscribe to Reading The Game With Miguel Delaney newsletter

Serbia and England fans throw tables and chairs in violent mass brawl ahead of Euro 2024 opener

Sunday 16 June 2024 16:40 , Chris Wilson

Violent clashes have broken out between rival England and Serbia fans just hours before their opening game this evening at the Euros 2024.

Tables were thrown and glasses smashed during the carnage outside the Aleppo bar in central Gelsenkirchen, with one football supporter pictured with blood streaming down his face.

Dozens of Serbs were attacked with projectiles with 200 German riot police rushing to the scene to break up the large-scale brawl, which one witness described as “premeditated”.

An eyewitness told MailOnline: “There was a sudden burst of violence. It came out of nowhere.”

Serbia and England fans throw tables and chairs in brawl ahead of match

Kevin Campbell was football’s nice guy who lived Arsenal ‘dream’ and left lasting Everton legacy

Sunday 16 June 2024 16:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle

There was sad news yesterday with the passing of Kevin Campbell at the age of 54. The former Arsenal and Everton star never earned a full England cap, ending his career as the player with the most Premier League goals not to earn international honours, but that lack of recognition undersells a fantastic player and, by all accounts, a brilliant man. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.

Kevin Campbell was football’s nice guy who lived the ‘dream’

Serbia and England fans throw tables and chairs in brawl ahead of Euro 2024 match

Sunday 16 June 2024 16:30 , Holly Evans

Clashes have broken out between rival England and Serbia fans ahead their opening game this evening at the Euros 2024.

Dozens of Serbs were attacked with projectiles outside the Aleppo bar in central Gelsenkirchen.

One man, reportedly from Birmingham, was wounded in the head during the fight, according to the Mirror.

Serbia and England fans throw tables and chairs in brawl ahead of match

Euro 2024 kits: Every home and away shirt ranked and rated

Sunday 16 June 2024 16:20 , Lawrence Ostlere

Euro 2024 is upon us and with it comes a sartorial smorgasbord for us to enjoy, or be deeply offended by.

What have Croatia done this time? Have England pulled off a genuine gem? Why are Belgium wearing brown shorts? And which kit has won our highly coveted top spot?

Nike, Adidas, Puma, Macron, Joma and the good people at Hummel have dropped their designs so, without further ado, let’s get stuck in.

Ranked from the visually upsetting to the optically arousing, here is our list of Euro 2024 kits.

Euro 2024 kits: Every shirt ranked and rated

Harry Kane reveals impact of trophy drought on England’s Euro 2024 chances

Sunday 16 June 2024 16:10 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Harry Kane believes he has a different kind of aura after his prolific first season at Bayern Munich but said his inability to win his first trophy of his career gives him still more hunger to triumph in Euro 2024.

The England captain scored 44 goals in 45 appearances in his debut season for Bayern, earning the European Golden Shoe for finding the net 36 times in the Bundesliga.

And he feels he has got more respect now as a player who has flourished at one of the biggest clubs around, rather than just as the local boy who scored for Tottenham.

He explained: “I’d say from an outside point of view, I’m probably respected more as one of the top strikers in the world.

Harry Kane reveals impact of trophy drought on England’s Euro 2024 chances

From Jesse to Jude: Tracing the four stages of Gareth Southgate’s England evolution

Sunday 16 June 2024 16:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle

This could well be the final tournament of Gareth Southgate’s successful stint as England manager. Lawrence Ostlere charts how the team - and Southgate himself - have evolved as they target a trophy to truly mark their transformation.

From Jesse to Jude: The four stages of Gareth Southgate’s England evolution

Phil Foden tipped for Euro 2024 player of the tournament by England teammate

Sunday 16 June 2024 15:50 , Harry Latham-Coyle

John Stones has backed England and Manchester City team-mate Phil Foden to show the world how good he is at Euro 2024 and claims he could win player of the tournament in the process.

Foden heads to Germany after a fine season at the Etihad Stadium, scoring 19 goals and laying on eight assists as City won an unprecedented fourth straight Premier League title.

Such form saw the 24-year-old named Manchester City player of the year, Premier League player of the year and Football Writers’ Association footballer of the year.

Phil Foden tipped for Euro 2024 player of the tournament by England teammate

Kieran Trippier happy to adapt to different roles during England’s Euro 2024 bid

Sunday 16 June 2024 15:40 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Kieran Trippier has pledged to be the ultimate team player in England’s bid to win the Euros, whether that means playing out of position, offering experience or even starting matches on the sidelines.

The 33-year-old has been part of all four of Gareth Southgate’s major tournament squads and looks set to start tonight’s Group C opener against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen.

But right-back Trippier will line-up on the opposite side as England wait for their sole out-and-out left-back Luke Shaw to return from four months out with a hamstring injury.

Kieran Trippier happy to adapt to different roles during England’s Euro 2024 bid

Scotland let themselves down against Germany and where it all went wrong is obvious

Sunday 16 June 2024 15:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Yes, it was an opening night to forget for Scotland, whose dress rehearsals hadn’t been particularly encouraging, either. Jamie Braidwood identifies where it all went wrong:

Scotland let themselves down against Germany and where it all went wrong is obvious

Steve Clarke hoping cuddles and kicked backsides lift Scotland after Germany thrashing

Sunday 16 June 2024 15:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Kicked backsides and a few cuddles were needed in the wake of Scotland’s demoralising 5-1 defeat by Germany in their opening Euro 2024 game, according to manager Steve Clarke.

The thrashing by the hosts in Munich means Scotland sit bottom of Group A, although with Switzerland to play on Wednesday, followed by Hungary, there is still hope of making the last 16.

For that to happened though Scotland will have to show an enormous improvement as they bid to collect the four points Clarke believes could take them through.

Steve Clarke hoping cuddles and kicked backsides lift Scotland after Germany drubbing

Euro 2024 power rankings: Rating every nation’s chances ahead of the tournament

Sunday 16 June 2024 15:10 , Lawrence Ostlere

Euro 2024 is here with 24 teams competing to win the Henri Delaunay Trophy in Germany this summer.

Germany thumped Scotland in the opener in Munich with German fans delighted with the prospect of a fourth European Championship.

The strongest nations all appear fallible coming into the European Championship, and it is shaping up to be an open tournament with the chance to go deep into the knockout rounds for any side who can get their act together.

Here, The Independent assesses how every Euro 2024 nation stacks up.

Euro 2024 power rankings: Rating every nation’s chances ahead of the tournament

Gareth Southgate responds to Wayne Rooney criticism over ‘special’ Trent Alexander-Arnold role

Sunday 16 June 2024 15:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle

We are expecting Trent Alexander-Arnold to line up alongside Declan Rice in midfield tonight, a bold call from Gareth Southgate but one that he feels comes with an “opportunity worth grasping”.

Gareth Southgate responds to Wayne Rooney criticism over Trent Alexander-Arnold role

Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website