Jude Bellingham: England Hero Explains His ‘Offensive’ Gesture Against Slovakia in Round of 16 Win

• England's hero against Slovakia, Jude Bellingham, has addressed the controversy surrounding his gesture after his goal
• The 21-year-old appeared to aim a 'rude' gesture towards the Slovakian bench after scoring the equalising goal for the Three Lions
• Up next for him and his English colleagues is a quarter-final tie against Switzerland on Saturday, July 6, at Merkur Spiel Arena

Jude Bellingham has clarified the controversy surrounding his supposed 'offensive' gesture during England's dramatic comeback victory against Slovakia in the Round of 16 on Sunday, June 30.

The Real Madrid star once again proved his clutch abilities, scoring a late acrobatic goal before Harry Kane sealed the 2-1 win after extra time.

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The crucial strike came at a time when Bellingham was under intense scrutiny for his performances in the group stages and for being relatively anonymous in the early part of the last-16 tie.

Jude's goal, his second of the tournament, transformed a near-defeat into salvation for Gareth Southgate's much-maligned squad, as noted by the BBC.

Kane's winner later confirmed England's date with Switzerland in the quarter-final stage, Eurosport reports.

Despite being named man-of-the-match and receiving widespread praise, particularly on social media, a moment during the game left many puzzled.

Bellingham clarifies 'rude' gesture

In a video circulating on X (formerly known as Twitter), the 21-year-old appeared to make a 'rude' gesture towards the Slovakian bench, sparking criticism for being 'disrespectful.'

However, Bellingham has swiftly moved to clear the air.

He explained that the gesture was aimed at some of his close friends in the stands, not at the opposition. He also emphasised his utmost respect for Slovakia, dispelling any notion of contempt.

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"An inside joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game. Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight," the Stourbridge midfielder wrote on X.

Aguero in awe of Bellingham's stunning goal

In an earlier publication, Sports Brief highlighted Manchester City legend Sergio Aguero's admiration for Jude Bellingham's stunning strike against Slovakia at Euro 2024.

The 21-year-old's bicycle kick goal became a viral sensation, with fans and Aguero alike praising the incredible feat.

Aguero was visibly impressed by Bellingham's clutch goal, which some fans compared to his iconic match-winning strike for Manchester City against QPR in the 2011–12 Premier League season.