July 05, (THEWILL) – England midfielder, Jude Bellingham, has received a one-match ban and a €30,000 fine, from UEFA for his contentious celebration during England’s Euro 2024 match against Slovakia. The decision, announced on Friday, means Bellingham will be available for England’s quarterfinal clash with Switzerland on July 6.
UEFA’s Ethics and Disciplinary body stated that Bellingham’s suspension is “not immediately enforced and is subject to a probationary period of one year”. The Real Madrid star was penalised for “violating the basic rules of decent conduct” after mimicking a crotch grab whilst appearing to look towards the Slovakia bench following his crucial stoppage-time equaliser.
The 20-year-old’s availability comes as a significant boost for England manager Gareth Southgate. Bellingham has been a key player for the Three Lions, scoring twice in four matches during the tournament. Despite reaching the quarterfinals, England has yet to deliver a convincing performance in Germany.
England’s clash with Switzerland in Duesseldorf presents a golden opportunity to end their 58-year trophy drought in major tournaments. The winner of this match will face either Turkey or the Netherlands in the semifinals, avoiding tournament favourites Germany, Spain, Portugal, and France, who are all on the opposite side of the draw.
Under Southgate’s leadership, England has come close to glory in recent years, reaching the Euro 2020 final and the semifinals of the 2018 World Cup. The team will be eager to go one step further in this tournament and possibly claim the trophy for their football-loving country.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
