In the early hours of July 15, England suffered a heartbreaking 1-2 loss to Spain in the final of the 2024 European Championship. Following the match, English midfielder Jude Bellingham expressed his disappointment and anger through a series of intense actions.
At the Olympiastadion in Berlin, photographers captured Bellingham overturning a water cooler and sitting alone on an empty bench. These images quickly spread across social media. One internet user speculated, “Is he upset about missing out on the Ballon d’Or?” Another commented, “He might have been one of the underperforming players in the game.”
In reality, Bellingham faced tight marking from the opposition, particularly when up against his Real Madrid teammate Carvajal. Nevertheless, he managed to provide a crucial assist that helped Palmer level the score at 1-1.
However, the ultimate defeat has put Bellingham at a disadvantage in the Ballon d’Or race, especially when compared to standout performers in the European Championship, such as Rodri, who was named the tournament’s best player.
Bellingham had some impressive moments during the European Championship, including a stunning goal in the Round of 16 match against Slovakia. Unfortunately, these efforts did not translate into a championship trophy for England.
This marks the second consecutive time that England manager Gareth Southgate has experienced defeat in a European Championship final, the previous being a penalty shootout loss to Italy at Wembley Stadium.
The loss undoubtedly deepens the “curse” of English football, and Bellingham’s anger is a direct reflection of the team’s shattered dreams.
