Arsenal star Bukayo Saka played a key role for England as they got their Euro 2024 campaign off to a winning start v Serbia on Sunday night.
Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka made a decisive impact for England against Serbia.
Gareth Southgate’s side made a dynamic start to the match, flying out of the blocks with energy and attacking intent. No player characterised this more so than Saka. The 22-year-old was a constant menace to the Serbian defence, as his movement and directness on the right wing carried persistent threat.
Saka passed a late fitness test in order to start this match, but looked sharp and full of running when the game began. Having already produced a number of dangerous actions, he made a telling contribution in the game with 13 minutes on the clock, as his cross was headed home from close range by Jude Bellingham.
As Serbia improved in the second half, the Hale End academy graduate became less influential in the game. However, Saka had already successfully impressed Arsenal fans with his efforts. Mikel Arteta will surely have been watching on with pride from somewhere too.
Saka’s assist and Bellingham’s finish ultimately proved to be the difference between the two sides as the Three Lions recorded a 1-0 victory. Overall, England were perhaps a little fortunate not to have drawn the match. The best is yet to come from this team, and Saka has now called upon his international colleagues to build on this performance.
Arsenal star Bukayo Saka urges England team to improve at Euro 2024
Taking to Instagram after the match, Saka said: “Happy with the win. Let’s build now.”
England will need to improve upon this display quickly if they want to go deep in this competition, and there is enough talent in Southgate’s ranks for them to do exactly that. In order for the national team to succeed, though, Saka will almost certainly need to keep firing on all cylinders.
Fellow Arsenal star Gabriel Magalhaes responded to the 34-cap England star’s social media post, saying “Sakaaaaaa” followed by a red heart emoji.
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