- Midfielder scored stunning goal vs Slovakia
- Antics after that have sparked debate
- Three Lions preparing for quarter-final clash
WHAT HAPPENED?
The Real Madrid superstar stepped up when the Three Lions needed him most during their dramatic last-16 encounter with Slovakia. Deep into stoppage-time, Bellingham produced a stunning overhead kick that sent the tie into extra-time and paved the way for record goal-scorer Harry Kane to grab a winner.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
Bellingham worked through several celebrations after finding the target – including his most iconic one, which was delivered alongside Kane – but one gesture aimed in the direction of the stands could land him in hot water.
WHAT BELLINGHAM SAID
The 21-year-old has rubbished any suggestion that the lewd gesture, which saw him move his hand back and forth towards his groin, was aimed at the Slovakian bench. Bellingham has posted on social media when explaining his antics: “An inside joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game. Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight.”
DID YOU KNOW?
A Bola are, however, among those to report that Bellingham could now face sanction. UEFA rules dictate that any player making an “obscene gesture” or engaging in “offensive or insulting action” can be handed a ban. European football’s governing body will review the reports of the match referee and officials before taking any action.
WHAT NEXT?
If Bellingham were to be handed a one-match ban, then he would be forced to sit out England’s last-eight showdown with Switzerland. That would represent a huge blow to Gareth Southgate’s plans, but the 2024 Ballon d’Or contender – who was suspended at Real Madrid last season after displaying “contemptuous or disrespectful attitude towards a referee” – appears confident that he has done nothing wrong.
