In the thrilling kickoff to their Euro 2024 campaign, England secured a tense 1-0 victory against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen. Jude Bellingham set the tone early, heading in a crucial goal in the 13th minute, ultimately sealing the win for Gareth Southgate's side.

The match showcased a gritty performance from both teams, with Harry Kane's close-range header being brilliantly tipped onto the crossbar by Predrag Rajkovic in the second half. The Serbian team rallied after the break, putting pressure on the English defense, requiring them to stand strong until the final whistle.

England's player ratings, as assessed by Metro.co.uk, reflected a mix of solid displays and areas for improvement. Jordan Pickford received a 7 for his late save, while Kyle Walker and John Stones matched that rating with consistent performances. Marc Guehi excelled in the central defense, earning an 8 for his composed presence during the game.

However, the lack of a natural left-back was highlighted through Kieran Trippier's rating of 6, and Trent Alexander-Arnold's performance left room for improvement, with a similar rating. Declan Rice shone with an 8, showcasing his versatility and battling spirit in midfield.

Bukayo Saka and Jude Bellingham, both rated 7 and 8 respectively, contributed significantly to England's attacking threat. Bellingham's heroics earned him a well-deserved ovation as he found the back of the net early in the game.

Social media was abuzz with reactions to the match, with some fans expressing dissatisfaction with Phil Foden's performance, suggesting he struggled to replicate his club form on the international stage. Criticism also fell on the quiet showing from England captain Harry Kane, despite the team's victory.

As England clinches their first win of the tournament, the focus now shifts to their upcoming matches as they aim to build momentum and secure a place in the knockout stages of Euro 2024.