Bellingham’s Suspension and Fine
Jude Bellingham is set to play in England’s EURO 2024 quarter-final against Switzerland after receiving a suspended one-game ban and a €30,000 fine for his controversial celebration against Slovakia. UEFA stated the ban is on probation for one year.
The Controversial Celebration
Bellingham was filmed mimicking a crotch grab towards Slovakia’s bench after his dramatic stoppage-time equaliser, which kept England’s tournament hopes alive. UEFA’s Ethics and Disciplinary body found this to violate the basic rules of decent conduct.
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England’s Quarter-Final Prospects
Bellingham, a key player for England, will likely start in the quarter-final in Duesseldorf on Saturday. Despite inconsistent performances, England has advanced to the last eight, with Bellingham contributing two goals in four matches.
Tournament Bracket and England’s Opportunity
England faces Switzerland, who knocked out Italy and drew with hosts Germany. A win would set up a semi-final against Turkey or the Netherlands. On the other side of the bracket, Germany faces Spain, and Portugal battles France.
England’s Historical Context
Under Gareth Southgate, England reached the final of the last Euros and made deep runs in the last two World Cups, falling short in the semi-finals in 2018 and the quarter-finals in Qatar. This tournament presents another chance to end a 58-year major tournament drought.