Jude Bellingham credited England's second-half dominance following the 4-2 victory, having scored the crucial 47th-minute goal to restore his side's lead. Bellingham told FIFA's official website: 'Especially in the second half we really showed what we're capable of, what kind of team we want to be.'
The midfielder emphasized tactical discipline and confidence after halftime: 'In the second half we acted very confidently, and an early goal at the start of the second half gave us a good foundation.' Bellingham's strike came just two minutes into the second half, shifting momentum decisively after Croatia's two first-half equalizers.
The performance underlined Bellingham's central role in England's attacking midfield setup under Tuchel's new coaching regime. His ability to drive into the box and finish clinically proved instrumental in turning the match. England's next fixtures against Ghana (23 June) and Panama (28 June) will test whether this second-half intensity can be sustained.
For betting markets, Bellingham's goal-scoring threat and early second-half impact strengthen his goal-assist markets and England's midfield attacking value. His tournament form may shift player-performance odds in his favor for knockout-stage squad selections.
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