Serbia 0-1 England - Euro 2024 RECAP: Jude Bellingham wins it for the Three Lions

Three points, and top of group C. A good day for England.

Look, I am not going to beat around the bush, England were not perfect by any stretch of the imagination.

But they did what they needed to do - get the three points - and they did it with a clean sheet.

It took Jude Bellingham's brilliance in the end, he always turns up on the big occasion, and he did so again.

Other than that, Marc Guehi passed his test at the back, while Trent Alexander-Arnold had some strong and not-so-strong moments.

Serbia will not feel they are out of the running in the group by any stretch, and going by the second-half performance, they have a shot at making it through.

England, though, have to improve.

Anyway, it's time for me to head off now. As always, it has been a pleasure guiding you through the night.

I will see you all very soon, goodbye!

Gareth Southgate always likes to start major tournaments as he means to go on.

In all four of his tournaments he has been in charge of England, he has led the Three Lions to victory in the opening match.

• World Cup 2018: Tunisia 1-2 England
• Euro 2020: England 1-0 Croatia
• World Cup 2022: England 6-2 Iran
• Euro 2024: Serbia 0-1 England

Remember, England has not won a Euros opening match before Southgate arrived, but now they have won the last two.

Laura, Canada: Well they won their first match of the tournament, but on that form, it does not look like they will be taking part in the last match of the tournament. Still, I wish them well.

Anonymous: Got to admit, we were terrible, many players out of position or not playing the position they were allocated, extremely bad management regarding substitution and tactics, we will be so lucky to get beyond the group if we continue.

Phil, Yorkshire: Either Serbia are a lot better than everybody thinks or it's the quarter-final and home. Awful in the second half.

More from Gareth Southgate, England boss, speaking about Marc Guehi to BBC Radio 5 Live:

[I'm] really pleased for him. I saw the player I have seen every week for his club, positionally he was sound. Today was going to be a particular test in terms of his stature as he's not the biggest centre-back, but he dealt with the aerial threat really well.

The headline says it all.

Marc Guehi did not put a foot wrong all night for England, he looked assured next to John Stones, like he had always been there.

It's hard to see him losing his place now for the rest of the tournament, he proved what he can do and has earned Gareth Southgate's trust.

A long Three Lions career in the making...

When Jude Bellingham and Trent Alexander-Arnold pulled out this celebration, I was very curious as to why they did it.

Well, now we have our answer...

Jude Bellingham has revealed it is to represent a game called Wolf that the England side play.

It was also pulled out to represent the backroom staff in the camp, and Bellingham praised them in his press conference too.

So, now we know. I must say, I was confused at first, and still am slightly.

I think it's about time I plugged the match story.

As you could probably tell already, we had several reporters at the ground tonight, soaking in all the action.

One of those people was Oliver Holt, Mail Sport's Chief Sports Writer, and he was on match story duty, this evening.

It's fair to say, he wasn't mightily impressed with England.

To read what he had to say, click below:

Trent Alexander-Arnold, England midfielder, speaking to UEFA:

To get the win was what our objective was. It is very important to start a tournament with a win. Definitely don't lose the game but we know we have the quality to win the game and we proved that today. We had to earn it but those are the ones that feel even better. We have defended excellently.

I found it good [playing in midfield]. Physically demanding. But when you are playing with Declan [Rice] , Jude [Bellingham] , and with an experienced back four behind you, and Jude and Declan who communicate really well, it's hard to go wrong.

Now, to say I was surprised when I saw these stats is an understatement.

FIVE shots, England only had five shots all game. There were only 11 in total. looking at that, it really wasn't the best game, was it?

For some reason in my head England knocked at the door all first half, but looking back, they just created openings, not chances.

Oh well, the only statistic that matters is the scoreline, and it was in England's favour.

They need to be much better next time, though.

Bobby, UK: Bellingham was brilliant tonight. Apart from the goal he rarely missed a pass. He's like an Italian Sports car as he floats over the grass.

Steve, Birmingham: Good result but need lots of improvement, nowhere near looking like favourites.

Nick, Isle of Man: A game of two halves, England looked knackered in the second half with Serbia all over them

Harry, Northampton: Fantastic performance. Whisper it quietly but it really could be coming home.

Anonymous: The way we played 2nd half.. we've all seen that 'England' team so many times over the years. Sneak through the group stages, and then we'll lack the drive and passion in the knockout stages. and will get done over!

Mixed opinions... to say the least.

Wow, this is one strong opinion.

Mail Sport spoke to some of the England fans leaving the Veltins-Arena, and one Three Lion did not mince his words on Harry Kane.

He even suggested the striker was not good enough to play for his country, let alone captain it.

I'm not sure it's an opinion shared by many...

Now we have seen the opening game, it's time to ask the question?

Will England reign supreme in Euro 2024 come July 14?

Going by that performance, it's hard to say they will, but I'm not writing this to give my opinion, I want to hear from you.

Vote below!

Many photos are now dropping in of the England fans, and fair play, they really did sing their hearts out.

They may not remember this match very well in the future, but they will remember the memories they made.

From singing 'God Dave the King' to serenading Gareth Southgate and Jude Bellingham, they had a fantastic time.

Many of them will get to do it all over again on Thursday.

Want to hear from one of our reporters in Germany? Of course, you do!

Craig Hope was in Gelsenkirchen to watch England scrape past Serbia, and he has given his thoughts after the match.

If you want to hear what he had to say, all you have to do is click on the post below. It's easy.

You will want to hear what he has to say.

Micah Richards, former England International, speaking on BBC ONE:

It makes me sad when I see a player of Phil Foden's quality in and out of games. At Manchester City it is all coordinated with Pep Guardiola and the system that they play, we need to find ways to get him involved.

When he is coming from a wide position it is difficult for him, he goes from pressing out wide to coming back inside and he needs a full back to go and overlap so he can get those combinations going.

That was not the Phil Foden we are used to seeing.

In a Manchester City shirt, he is simply marvellous. He can do no wrong in Pep Guardiola's side.

But for whatever reason, it just doesn't click for him when he pulls on a Three Lions jersey.

Is he not used to the system, is he being deployed wrong, or is it a mental block.

If he can find his form he would be a maestro for this side, but tonight he did not turn up whatsoever.

He went missing for large parts, which is so unlike him. Has he done enough to keep his place in the side?

I think he deserves another chance, but he needs to grab it.

I couldn't help but laugh when I saw this.

I think we all thought Harry Kane was destined to score when he latched his head onto Jarrod Bowen's cross in the 78th minute.

So, when Predag Rajkovic tipped it onto the bar, it surprised everybody, even Gareth Southgate.

Usually so cool and composed, he couldn't help but let out a little bad word when the ball did not hit the net.

We will let you off, Gareth!

Marc Guehi, England defender, speaking to BBC ONE:

It went well. Always very tough in the first game of any tournament. You know, both teams always at it, wanted to get the first three points, and I think we did really well. We dealt with their long balls quite well, defended our box. You know, they're, they're a good side, tough test. So, yeah, really proud of the boys today.

Yeah, when you've got Vlahovic and Mitrovic up front, a team full of six-foot giants in their team, you know, always going to be physical, and they can play as well. They're always going to cause, always going to cause threats. But I think we dealt with it well today.

I've always said it helps when you've got so many experienced players around me, you know, Tripps. He's got like, four tournaments or five tournaments under his belt, Stoney's, the same Walker's, the same Picks, the same. So, you know, I'm coming into a back line with so much experience, and the players in front have got so much experience as well. So it helps a lot for me.

We can always improve, and we'll definitely look to improve. Look at the areas in which we can get better. But you know, it's a good start. And you know, on to the next one. [I've] Settled in well, I don't really like talking too much about myself. It's more about the team, but yeah, everyone makes everyone feel welcome. It's a good spirit in the camp. And, yeah, just glad to be here.

England have created their own bit of history tonight.

By keeping a clean sheet against Serbia, they have now kept five consecutive European Championship clean sheets.

They are the first team in the history of the tournament to manage that feat. They really do love clean sheets.

Remember, they kept five during Euro 2020 on their way to the final, only conceding two goals throughout the tournament.

Defences win you trophies...

England goalscorer Jude Bellingham, speaking to BBC Sport:

Good game. I thought they are a very tough side. Very robust, strong and a big group of lads and it was important that we prepared well.

The staff got it right. We prepared all week very well. We knew the roles we had to do. We try to keep to our own standards and try to do our own job. It's important that we got off to a good start. Positive inside the camp and onto the next one.

I have got used to getting into the box, getting wide and trying to do that. I got into that habit at Madrid and I wanted to carry my form into the Euros. It's a great start for me personally to get my confidence up and to help the lads get the win is the most important thing.

On his family's support:

Jude Bellingham is made up of amazing people. It's not just me. It's because I have such a great support network.

So, we know what Ian Ladyman thinks, and Craig Hope has also shared similar feelings too.

But what do you think, did Trent Alexander-Arnold work well in that midfielder role.

I personally thought in the first half that he did. Looked comfortable in there next to Declan Rice and helped control the pressure on Serbia.

The second half, though, not so much. He was right to be taken off.

I guess, the debate will have to go on...

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Gelsenkirchen:

So the Trent Alexander-Arnold debate remains a live one. Decent when England were enjoying all the ball and all the freedom early in the game.

Invisible and taken off when Serbia found some courage and momentum thereafter. Does Southgate try again on Thursday against Denmark? I wouldn’t.

Jude Bellingham showed tonight just why he is rated so highly.

In the first half, in particular, he was gliding across the Gelsenkirchen grass, barely any Serbia players got near him.

When he plays like that, it is a sight to behold, and just like he has done all season, he came up trumps with the winning goal.

It comes as no surprise that he won the Player of the Match award, I would have given it to him after 15 minutes.

As long as he is fit, England will always have a chance. What a player.

Harry Kane, England captain, speaking to BBC ONE:

We knew it was going to be a tough game, Serbia pose a lot of threats and have some good players. They will make it a battle for you and I think we dealt with it really well.

There was a spell in the second half where we got camped in our box and we found it hard to get out but it was an important win tonight.

It's a tough game. They are a tough team and have good players. We stood up to it well and it is good to get the three points and [for us] to progress. It's good that we got the win today.

England fans from across the world are elated after England's win against Serbia tonight.

Fans can relax now and celebrate with a pint until next time. Just look at all those smiles.

We love a cheesy grin on this blog!

So far, so good for England.

The result means they leap straight up to top spot after the draw between Slovenia and Denmark earlier.

It may not have been a vintage performance, but I know all of you are smiling looking at this table.

Another win on Thursday against the Danes, and job done in the group stages.

Craig Hope, Mail Sport, in Gelsenkirchen:

That was a scratchy start from England. A brilliant opening 30 minutes, in which they played with control and confidence. But they lost that after the break and the lead felt very fragile for a period. Bellingham was the best of England but even he faded.

The big worry would be Phil Foden on the left, who was poor and a shadow of the Premier League Player of the Year. The Trent Alexander-Arnold midfield experiment did not work, either. Much to consider ahead of Denmark.

Well then, you can all relax now.

In the end, England got the job done. they always like to make you all sweat, don't they?

But what did you think of it all?

We really saw the two sides of England today. In the first half, they were in full flow and showed why they are the favourites.

In the second, they needed to dig their heels in when Serbia came at them. That's what the best teams do.

Harry Kane's wife Katie Goodland has had a smile on her face for much of tonight's match as she supports the captain from the stands.

And the smile will be even wider now that England, and her husband, have got the job done.

ENGLAND HOLD ON!

The Three Lions made it difficult for themselves in the second half, they let Serbia attack them and the nerves crept in.

But, Jordan Pickford came up trumps for them, and they held on to the very end, and the result is all that matters.

It may not have been pretty, but at this stage, Gareth Southgate won't care one bit.

The first job is done.

That will leave a mark, but Jarrod Bowen won't care.

He makes the all-important block on the left-hand side to stop a cross coming in, it hits him straight in the stomach.

Luckily, I'm guessing his food is all digested and safe...

England fans, how are your nerves?

There will be four minutes for the Three Lions to hold on, it will feel like a lifetime.

Can they do it?

Sergej Milinkovic-Savic has a go, and it flies miles wide.

Serbia are starting to get into desperation station, and now Milinkovic-Savic wants to put his name in the headlines.

He is quite a way from goal, but pulls the trigger anyway. As you now know, it wasn't even close.

Stoppage time is approaching...

I think that's the first time I have heard Phil Foden's name this half...

He has been pretty invisible, which is unlike him, but he finally makes an impact with an amazing run beating several Serbia players.

He is then hacked down, but nothing comes of it. The nerves really are rife in the England camp with just a few moments to go.

Jude Bellingham has done his job.

The goalscorer comes off to a standing ovation, he has been by far and away the best player on the pitch tonight.

19-year-old Kobbie Mainoo comes on for him to make his major tournament international debut.

Oh wow, now it's Jordan Pickford with a fantastic save!

He hasn't had to do too much tonight, but suddenly he is called into action to deny Dusan Vlahovic.

He does it in some style too. Vlahovic lets fly of a venomous effort and Pickford leaps his highest at full stretch to tip it over the bar.

Then Harry Kane is forced to do his defensive duties... worrying moments there for England.

Oh no, not Kieran Trippier...

England already have left-back problems and now the Newcastle man is down with a problem - which is very worrying.

Oh wait, all of a sudden he is ok. The magic rub does the trick.

Worries over, for now.

Oh my word, what a save that is by Predag Rajkovic!

He keeps Serbia in this match by reacting brilliantly to deny Harry Kane from close range.

Jarrod Bowen does brilliantly to clip the ball over to Kane who is lurking at the back post.

He rises highest and looks certain to score, but somehow Rajkovic tips his effort onto the bar.

Was that the moment for Kane?

It's worth mentioning that Dusan Tadic was booked among all of those changes.

He looks bewildered as to why, and so am I.

England fans from around the country are hooked on every move at tonight's game against Serbia.

Fans have gone from being elated after England's first goal to looking nervous as they stand with their head in their hands.

People watching in fan parks in London and Newcastle are anxiously hoping for another goal from England soon.

Another post, another substitution.

Serbia have decided to make another, this time it's Andrija Zivkovic who walks off the pitch. Replacing him is Veljko Birmancevic.

I must admit, these names are harder to type than the likes of Bukayo Saka.

Speaking of the winger, he makes way too, Jarrod Bowen now gets his chance to impress on the big stage.

It feels like an age since England looked dangerous, and they struggle to create a real opening once again.

Bukayo Saka clips a ball to the back stick for John Stones to attack, he gets to the ball, but his cross-box header ends up in the hands of Predag Rajkovic.

They need to start applying some more pressure.

We predicted correctly.

Trent Alexander-Arnold's night is over, and overall, it's been a very good one for him.

But just at the end he started to feel the pace of the game, and Conor Gallagher has come on to provide the energy.

It is needed, the Three Lions look flat on their feet.

Conor Galagher looks prepped and ready to come on, for Trent Alexander-Arnold presumably.

But just before he does the Liverpool man has one last chance to show what he has got from a corner.

but it's punched away with ease...

What did Dragan Stojkovic say to his men at half-time?

Serbia are a different team, they are starting to pin England back, and their threat is getting larger.

And just as I say that Luka Jovic messes up a massive, massive chance.

Dusan Tadic wins the ball high up the pitch and feeds him in the box, but he can't sort his feet out.

A huge opportunity goes begging...

And that's the last of Aleksandar Mitrovic.

He has struggled against the England backline today, and he is being replaced by AC Milan's Luka Jovic.

Also, former Premier League star Dusan Tadic has entered the fray...

Can they make an impact?

Serbia are screaming for a penalty, Aleksandar Mitrovic is down...

I'm not sure why he is screaming. Kieran Tripper puts him off balance to allow Jordan Pickford to collect the ball, but it was fair play.

They want a VAR review, but they aren't getting it. It's clear to see why too.

England supporters at a fan park in Gelsenkirchen are in high spirits as they sing for Bellingham and Southgate while watching tonight's match from a screen.

The group of thousands have been filmed chanting classic hits as they remain hopeful after England's goal in the first half.

That's better from England, much better.

Trent Alexander-Arnoild is involved twice as he tried to get the Three Lions back on track.

First he lets fly from distance and stings the palms of Predag Rajkovic, before recycling the ball and sending a pullback to Jude Bellingham.

Bellingham tries to open up space in the area, but Ilkic nips it from beneath his feet.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Gelsenkirchen:

Different game now for England. Serbia have found some courage and some intensity and are finding holes between the England midfield and back four. Next goal of this game feels huge.

England are starting to lose control of proceedings.

You can feel the anxiety as Serbia have looked sharper out of the blocks this time around.

Just as I type that, Kieran Tripper hooks the Three Lions out of danger to stop Dusan Vlahovic's cross from causing danger.

If this carries on, we have a game on our hands.

That is why you have Trent Alexander-Arnold in this side.

England are under pressure early in this half, and just as they try and break out, Alexander-Arnold somehow spots Bukayo Saka on his bike and finds him.

Saka is pushed into an area that isn't so dangerous, but the fact the counter nearly began in that way is proof of the midfielder's importance.

His role is working.

HARRY KANE HAS TOUCHED THE BALL!

Yes, I am really putting that in capital letters, although it does come to nothing.

If England can get him involved more, surely it can only get better for them?

Ready to do it again? I am.

Serbia have made a change at the break, Nemanja Gudelj - who was on a yellow card- has been hooked. Ivan Ilic is on.

Anyway, we are back underway. Can England get the job done?

Rio Ferdinand, England defender, speaking on BBC One:

I thought we started with complete dominance. I think in the first 12, when it's up to the goal, it was just one-sided, completely. And I think that the way we started the positivity, which we started the confidence, and it was as the most composed. I've seen it for a while, really, in that stage.

Hey Jude, you have done it again.

Jude Bellingham came up trumps to open England's account in Qatar at the World Cup in 2022.

Well, he has replicated it here in Germany, and he is always the man for the big occasion.

Box Park providing good content, as ever.

As we have shown you so far, England fans just about everywhere went mental when Jude Bellingham opened the scoring.

Here are the scenes at Box Park in Wembley, and it's fair to say, I think they enjoyed that one...

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, at the Trabrennbahn racecourse in Gelsenkirchen:

The Trabrennbahn (racecourse) in Gelsenkirchen where thousands of ticketless England fans have gathered. Lovely atmosphere here. The DJ meets the half-time whistle with ‘I Will Survive’ and ‘Viva La Vida’ and there’s plenty of singing and dancing. Happy days for now. Will England survive the next 45 minutes and secure a crucial three points?

Just listen to the roar as the header goes in.

First of all, it's brilliant play by Bukayo Saka, he has been immense from the very start today.

And then secondly, Bellingham comes from nowhere like a steam train, he was desperate to head that into the back of the net.

It was just the start they needed. Watch, and enjoy.

England fans are celebrating their team's lead so far in sunny destinations.

Holidymakers in Benidorm are watching the game from a screen while dressed up in the country's flag.

So far, so good for England.

They lead at the break thanks to Jude Bellingham's thumping header, and in truth, they could have had more.

The Three Lions were dominant for nearly all of that half, this is the best they have played in a very long time.

Keep playing like that after the interval, and this could be any number.

Well, that was nearly went very wrong from John Stones.

Serbia have suddenly started to cause some problems and Andrija Zivkovic fires in a brilliant bending ball into the box, and Stones only just about deals with it.

Now we have a corner just before the whistle...

There will be just two minutes off first-half stoppage time.

Meanwhile, Nemanja Gudelj shows what he has in his locker, making a neat sidestep to make space in the middle.

I did not know he had that in him, fair play.

And there we go, Filip Kostic cannot go on.

he is replaced by his namesake (first name) Mladenovic, it's a like-for-like swap.

Luck is not on their side so far...

'God Save the King' rings around the stadium, these England fans are enjoying themselves.

That's because of this Three Lions performance, they have been superb, but they will want another before half-time.

Meanwhile, Filip Kostic is down, and it looks like he won't be able to continue. A blow for Serbia.

Jude Bellingham is getting pulled over all over the park.

He is having a brilliant day at the office, and the only way Serbia can stop him is by tripping him up.

This time it's Nemanja Gudelj who puts a foot in, and he earns himself a yellow card for it.

Oh, that was so close.

Bukayo Saka has Strahinja Pavlovic on toast every time he decides to attack him. He does so again and breaks around the outside of him with ease.

Saka then drives into the box and looks up before sending a low cross across the area, but Phil Foden can't reach it.

Honestly, Saka is flying. Simply sensational.

While Jude Bellingham is putting in one of his greatest performances to date, the same cannot be said about Harry Kane, so far.

He has only touched the ball once, he is struggling to get involved whatsoever. Luckily for him, his teammates are flying.

He will get involved at some point, he always has his say.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Gelsenkirchen:

Jude Bellingham is controlling this game of football. His presence on a football field is quite unlike any footballer England have had for a long time. He’s the captain of this team in all but name.

It is Trent Aleander-Arnold... but it's pretty pants.

The ball heads straight into the wall, but not to worry, England have recycled the ball again.

It's one wave after another at the moment.

I'm going to say it, Trent Alexander-Arnold has been brilliant so far.

This time he wins a free-kick on the edge of the area after a quick bit of footwork got him into space and he is bundled over.

This set-piece is in his or Kieran Tripper's shooting position. They are both queuing up...

Police in Gelsenkirchen have confirmed no England fans were arrested before kick-off tonight.

Social media videos showed violence and supporters throwing tables and chairs at Hirt Steakhouse, a restaurant in the centre of Gelsenkirchen, with hundreds of riot police descending on the scene.

Local police later confirmed that the incident involved Serbian and England fans and that seven arrests were made, of which all were Serbian nationals.

Serbian fans initially claimed they were attacked by England fans while they were in the restaurant, with one telling Mail Sport that they were attacked by 'English hooligans.'

England fans watching from home aren't hiding their joy after Bellingham's goal just minutes into tonight's match.

Supporters can be seen throwing their hands in the air as they watch a screening of the game in Greenwich, London tonight.

Wow, now that is some pace from Kyle Walker.

Trent Alexander-Arnold sets the full-back away and no one is catching him, but under some pressure, he falls over and his pass across the area misses everyone.

He should have just hit that, why didn't he?

A couple of warning shots in the last few minutes from Serbia.

This time it's Dusan Vlahovic showing what they have got in their locker, but his effort is blocked.

Then, HANDBAGS ALERT!

Jude Bellingham is fired up and gets into it with Filip Kostic, nothing comes from it, but Bellingham just needs to be careful there.

The fans love the attitude though.

Now that is a warning for England.

One chance is all it takes for Serbia to get back into this, and Aleksander Mitrovic proves just that.

They allow him room on the edge of the area, and he flashes a sting shot just wide of the post.

That was very close...

England fans have praised Bellingham after he scored the first goal of tonight's match.

The 20-year-old made it look easy as he scored the goal just 12 minutes in.

England are in full flow, it's a pleasure to watch.

They work the ball out to Trent Alexander-Arnold, and he sees his name in lights.

Those lights go out very quickly as he awkwardly has a pop from distance and it bobbles wide.

Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham caught an elbow in the face from Dusan Vlahovic, very naughty. He is ok to play on, though.

Craig Hope, Mail Sport, in Gelsenkirchen:

England are absolutely dominating here. Serbia can't get the ball, evidenced by their 19 per cent share so far. I can't remember much of that anyway! It seems like England have had it since kick off.

That was exactly the start Gareth Southgate would have wanted.

England have come out of the traps flying, and their fans are having the time of their lives, the noise is deafening.

Keep this up, and another goal is not too far away.

England's poster boy comes up trumps!

Jude Bellingham gets England Euro 2024 campaign off to a stroming start with a fantastic header.

He races into the box after seeing Bukayo Saka beat his man on the right, and he breaks his back to get on the end of Saka's cross to head home.

It is fully deserved, and England are well on their way!

That is lovely stuff from Jude Bellingham.

His technique there to win a foul was brilliant, a drop of the shoulder, and then he was nearly away.

The free-kick comes to nothing, but this has been a very positive start from the Three Lions, they just need to pull the trigger more.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Gelsenkirchen:

There is already a fluidity about England that’s impressive. Alexander-Arnold is supposed to playing as Declan Rice’s partner at the base of the midfield but already he’s been wide on the right, making runs ahead of the front three and, occasionally, inside his own half.

Jude Bellingham, meanwhile, is England’s number ten but has dropped deep in search of possession twice in the first five minutes. It’s an example of what Gareth Southgate means when he says that formations are only really things written down on bits of paper.

England fans are hopeful as their team has had nearly all the ball in the first few moments of tonight's match against Serbia.

It just didn't fall quite right!

The ball comes the way of Phil Foden from a crisp Jude Bellingham pass, but his touch lets him down and the ball gets away from him.

That was a decent chance, he had lots of time in the area...

Trent Aolexander-Arnold's first real involvement does not quite go to plan.

We know how deadly his deliveries are, but not this time. His set-piece on the right is swung into the area, but it causes no problems.

I must say, though, England look very comfortable (in a good way).

I think we can already tell the pattern of this game.

England have had nearly all the ball in the opening moments, and will just have to bide their time as Serbia are sitting deep.

This is what Trent Alexander-Arnold is in the side for, to beat the low block. Can he do it?

We have hyped them up, now let's see what they are made of.

England get the ball rolling, and their Euro 2024 campaign has officially begun.

Can they start it with a bang, we will find out over the course of the next 90 minutes.

That was a country full of pride. England fans and players sing their hearts out to the national anthem, they are raring to go.

There are then a smattering of boos as Serbia get their turn to sing, which I'm guessing is from the England end, but who knows.

Anyway, the waiting is over now... it's time to get down to business.

Wow, would you just listen to that atmosphere!

The Veltins-Arena erupts as both England and Serbia arise from the tunnel for the crunch match. Game faces are certainly on.

England are wearing some cool jackets as they make their way out onto the pitch, I wouldn't mind one of them - stylish.

Right, we are now ready for the anthems...

Before we get the game underway, Mail Sport has another update.

Our reporter on the ground, Aadam Patel, has confirmed that Gelsenkirchen police have confirmed that no England fans have been arrested.

This is regarding the violent scenes we saw in the city earlier.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Gelsenkirchen:

If England reach the last eight here in Germany, Gareth Southgate will take charge of his 100th game as England manager.

Yet there is still a significant section of the England support who don’t rate him. I find it baffling.

The families are here to support their loved ones.

Harry Kane's wife, Katie Goodland (first picture left), is cheering on the captain from the stands.

Meanwhile, England's number one, Jordan Pickford, also has some support, with his wife Megan Davison (second picture), among the crowd.

They'll be hoping they see some goals from one, and a clean sheet from the other.

Well, it looks like the England army are having a good time.

The chants are in full flow, the tops are off, and the atmosphere is buzzing. They are ready to get behind their team.

You just know the scenes will be chaotic if England score, and score early. Limbs all over the place.

No fan fights can get these guys down, they are just here to have fun!

Sami Mokbel, Mail Sport, in Gelsenkirchen:

The team - as first revealed by Mail Sport on Monday - is one bursting with experience, yet there remains an unknown quality to it. Trent in midfield? Marc Guehi at centre-back? Big night for both, but both are big on quality. Can they handle it? We are about to find out.

Craig Hope, Mail Sport, in Gelsenkirchen:

A comedy moment inside the stadium as Serbia fans boo with great gusto expecting the England team to be announced on the main screen. Instead, Novak Djokovic appears with a good luck message and those jeers quickly turn to cheers in appreciation of the Serbian tennis legend.

I'm with colleague Ian Ladyman regarding Alexander-Arnold in midfield. I just don't think you can win a tournament with him in there. Yes, tonight he could excel, but that does not mean those who are pro this TAA midfield experiment will be proved right. I love him as a player, but much prefer him at right back.

Both teams are now on the turf.

This is the part where excitement builds more than ever, we are so very close now. I can almost taste kick-off.

Players are being put through their paces for the final preparations, and in just 25 minutes time, the talking is over.

It's very nearly time.

Gareth Southgate, England boss, speaking to BBC One:

We're excited watching the games that have been already played, and of course, now we have the chance to put our mark down. And yeah, we're raring to go.

Well, clearly, their [Serbia] forward players are very good players. They get numbers forward early, and they're well-organised team who mix their game up between being able to play and pass the ball, but also they go longer, so you have to deal with everything.

On starting Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield:

I think that he's obviously got a fantastic range. Looks like we're playing against the back five, so not so much space at times to be able to break the opposition down. And he'll give us a different option to the other attacking players we have.

No, I am not talking about myself.

The more important Harry, England's captain Kane, is set to make his 23rd appearance in a major tournament for England this evening.

That is a record number for a Three Lion. Can he mark it with an all-important goal?

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Gelsenkirchen:

England are out for their warm-up. The end housing their supporters is nowhere near full which appears to suggest transport problems to the stadium are for real. The Serbian end is pretty full, meanwhile. Maybe they walked…

England is as expected and indeed the one called by our chief football reporter Sami Mokbel at the start of this week. Personally I wouldn’t have picked Trent Alexander Arnold in centre midfield. I think it’s a risk. But then I am not the England manager.

The fans are settling down in their seats with smiles on their faces.

They know now that they are just under 40 minutes away from seeing both their side's Euro 2024 campaign begin.

It's especially big for the Servbia supporters, who have never seen their team at the European Championships as an independent nation.

That is, until now.

Declan Rice, England midfielder, on Trent Alexander-Arnold to BBC One:

Yeah, we've actually had so many good conversations just between the two of us this week. I think you're going to see a different side to Trent. I think he's raring to go. Not a lot of people would see this, but he's got so much energy and enthusiasm when he plays midfield.

He loves to get around the pitch. I'll be speaking to him, being disciplined. And yeah, I think it's going to be a midfield trio that fans can be excited about. But of course, the defensive side, the attacking side, we need to be on it for 90 minutes, because we're up against a tough side tonight.

Anonymous: Nice playing players out of place as per usual, game, what 45 minutes away, predication game will be slow, and the players will play sideways, as they don't know where to go, if wrong come back to me at 10pm.

Bill, Birmingham: Gareth's team selection is uninspired and will end in tears.

Fans not best pleased then...

Now Serbia have revealed their starting 11, and there are some familiar faces in there.

Any Premier League fans among you will recognise former Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, who captains the side from the front.

Current Fulham player, Sasa Lukic, also starts for Serbia, in the middle of the park.

Is this the team that can upset the Three Lions?

Oh, it's a huge match for Trent Alexander-Arnold...

Does he have what it takes in the midfield, only time will tell, but he will be wanting to prove his doubters wrong this evening.

Play well tonight, and maybe, just maybe, he really is the answer. However, struggle, and he will have the fanbase on his case.

It's his first ever European Championship start, which is a crazy stat.

Right, now that the team news is out, I want to hear from you!

Are you happy with the side selected by Gareth Southgate? I mean, it was what we were all expecting.

That doesn't mean it's what you wanted to see. So, please, comment down below your thoughts on the starting 11.

I will share the best reactions, right here.

Trent Alexander-Arnold does indeed get the nod in midfield.

Gareth Southgate's first line-up of the tournament is as expected, really. Marc Guehi starts alongside John Stones at the back, just as we reported earlier today.

Bukayo Saka is also given the OK after not starting any of England's warm-up games due to injury.

So, is this the team that can get the job done?

Now this is a great result for England.

Elsewhere in Group C, Slovenia came from behind against Denmark to claim a well-earned point, thanks to Erik Janza.

If England can get the job done tonight, they will already be in the box seat after just one match.

If you want to catch all the reaction to the draw, you can catch our live blog - led by Lewis Browning - below.

Nothing like a little stroll before going to work.

I usually do mine on the streets of London in a suit, well, England aren't doing quite the same.

Both sets of players have made their way to the pitch to check out their surroundings for the evening.

It's safe to say, they are all very relaxed.

Here they are, the Three Lions have arrived.

It's all starting to feel real now, whenever a team arrives at the stadium before kick-off, anticipation only increases.

Well, now we only have just a little bit longer to hear the team news. Then it really gets real.

I must say, they certainly look focused - as they should be!

For all the fans wanting an update on what Oliver Holt thinks about the currywurst in Gelsenkirchen, here is his verdict.

Gelsenkirchen just has the edge over Munich. Sauce a bit richer. Sausage bit spicier. Only quibble is that they hide the currywurst under the fries to begin with, which is like hiding the Mona Lisa under the fries. 9.60 Euros in Gelsenkirchen. 9.50 Euros in Munich.

It seems the majority of England fans are finally making their way to the ground.

After all the tram and train issues, thousands of the Three Lions faithful have been spotted on course for the Veltins-Arena.

After the day they have had, I bet they can't wait to be in that ground.

While Oliver munches on some top-notch grub, fans inside the ground are getting the drinks in.

Beer lovers are having to make do with low-alcohol beers as the game has been seen as 'high risk'.

It's the only fixture of the tournament where the alcohol level within the drinks has been reduced.

As you can see from earlier events, I'm not sure the plan will matter...

This might just be my favourite storyline of the tournament.

If you followed our coverage of Scotland's beating at the hands of Germany on Friday, you will know what I am talking about.

As you can see below, our Chief Sports Writer, Oliver Holt, has set himself a challenge to eat a currywurst at every ground during the Euros.

His second game means a second currywurst. I'm hungry, so the picture is pure torture to me.

Which one was better, Oliver?

Whatever happened to German efficiency?

The story of Euro 2024 so far has been that public transport, especially trains, have been absolutely tosh.

It appears once again that the metro system is causing chaos in the build-up to tonight's game.

It's fair to say, England fans aren't exactly happy, and I'm not surprised...

Ian, it seems you have changed your prediction from earlier...

Our Football Editor predicted a slender 1-0 win earlier, but it seems he has gained some more confidence as the day has gone on.

Ian was not the only reporter on hand to give his thoughts. Oliver Holt and Sami Mokbel also decided to have a punt at the guessing game.

The trio were all recording the 'It's All Kicking Off' podcast, which has daily episodes throughout the Euros.

Why not go have a listen, or maybe even a watch.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Gelsenkirchen:

England have brought the weather to Gelsenkirchen. It’s cold and wet and blowing a bit too. I don’t expect England to be blown off course though and I will say 2-0 to Gareth Southgate’s team.

While we currently have the sun beating down on us in London, the same cannot be said about England fans in Gelsenkirchen.

The rain has started lashing down in Germany, and while some fans have decided to take cover, others don't give a hoot.

Come rain, win, or shine, they will be singing. That should always be the way, shouldn't it?

I love a bit of footie in the rain!

Everybody loves a prediction, I know I do.

Mail Sport's Craig Hope, who is in Gelsenkirchen, has already given his. In fact, he gave one for all three games today.

He was bang on with the Netherlands match, predicting they would beat Poland 2-1, which they did.

However, his mystical predicting abilities have fallen short in Demark's match against Slovenia. He predicted a stalemate, but it's currently 1-0 to the Danes.

And finally, the big one. What does he think the England scoreline will end up being?

Find out below...

Joe Hart, former England goalkeeper, speaking on BBC Sport:

I think I would [like to see Trent Alexander-Arnold in the midfield]. I would be very excited to see it. They obviously believe in him.

This is not a position that he necessarily plays at club level, I know he has a few times, but Gareth [Southgate] has plenty of options in that position and he is choosing to put Trent in there.

One exciting player, I cannot wait to see him spraying balls across this arena and creating many, many, chances.

The turnstiles have begun turning.

After Scotland fans had trouble getting into the Allianz Arena on Friday night, England fans have decided to not hedge their bets.

Three Lions fans, and Serbia fans alike, are already at the Veltins-Arena, and thankfully they are in high spirits.

Just look at that young lad in the front there, he is having a whale of a time in Gelsenkirchen.

Will he be smiling later, though?

Right, kick-off is edging just that little bit closer, and excitement is building.

So, I thought, let's have a look at England's full fixture list for the tournament, including tonight's big match.

• England vs Serbia, June 16, 20:00 BST
• England vs Denmark, June 20, 17:00 BST
• England vs Slovenia, June 25, 20:00 BST

The Three Lions will be desperate to get off to a winning start tonight. On paper, the group isn't the hardest, but as I always say, football is not played on paper.

Statement from UK Football Policing Unit:

We are aware of an issue in Gelsenkirchen ahead of the England v Serbia match. Our German colleagues have made a number of arrests of what we currently believe to be Serbian supporters.

At this stage, we do not believe that any UK nationals have been arrested but enquiries are ongoing. Our officers are at the location speaking to German colleagues, Our investigation team is now reviewing footage of the incident and if any UK nationals have been involved, football banning orders will be sought.

I hope none of you are scared of clowns... if you are, look away.

Serbia ultras are currently being escorted to the Veltins-Arena by the police, and it's fair to say, one fan in particular is looking intimidating.

Clowns have never been my favourite thing, so I am not the biggest fan of these photos. But the news is news, have to get the job done, am I right?

What I can tell you, is they will make one hell of an atmosphere tonight!

New footage has emerged of the earlier violent conflict.

Videos seem to be popping up left, right, and centre all over social media now, and we have some of our very own sent through by an eye witness.

It seems there was some England involvement, to what extent is still to be confirmed.

Some Three Lions fans were seen fleeing the incident after chaos ensued.

I think I have heard this question asked every day this week.

Everyone has been talking about it, and it seems like many people are on very different pages.

Trent Alexander-Arnold looks set to start in midfield tonight, and it's been coming, hasn't it?

For some time now, Gareth Southgate has been experimenting with him in the middle of the park, and it seems he now has his results.

Alexander-Arnold is arguably the second-most gifted player in this England team, and there is no doubt his attacking capabilities will make them better.

But is he the right man to be standing alongside Declan Rice, and Jude Bellingham? I guess only time will tell.

I think it's worth the risk.

Gareth Southgate has already made some big calls.

It is understood that both Marc Guehi, and Trent Alexander-Arnold will take their places in the starting line-up this evening.

I can just imagine some people reading that and sighing, while others will be beaming - Southgate can never please everyone.

The rest of the side can be easily predicted, but we still won't know for another 110 minutes. Yep, that's still a while.

We just have to sit here and wait, but don't worry, I will try not to bore you.

Now, I think it's about time we talk about the game, don't you?

We know have just under three hours until England get their Euro 2024 up and running against Serbia.

The anticipation for this one has been through the roof. Fans up and down the country are already at beer gardens, bars, pubs, and clubs, all ready to watch Gareth Southgate's men take to the turf.

The Three Lio0ns have a point to prove. It's fair to say, they have been far from their best in the build-up to this tournament.

Questions have rightly been asked, and it's about time they are answered.

I'm excited for that whistle to be blown, I wish we could just press fast-forward on life and be at kick-off.

But we can't, so waiting it is.

So, the story of the day continues.

Mail Sport's Mike Keegan who is in Gelsenkirchen has revealed that the Police have arrested six Serbian fans following the chaotic scenes, according to sources.

Let's hope that soon we will be able to put this all behind us, but for now, we will bring you more updates as they come our way.

We have to remember that although the incident is distressing, the majority of fans in Gelsenkirchen are still having a good time.

Masses of England fans are already gathered at the fan park in Gelsenkirchen. While many will not have tickets, they will still have a good time.

It's nice to see some smiling faces, at least.

Shekhar Bhatia, MailOnline, in Gelsenkirchen:

Around 30 Serbians have been released by police from the Hirt Restaurant. Some said they were attacked by England fans.

The police still say that Albanians were involved, however. But there is an ongoing probe, said a spokesman.

It's fair to say, England do not usually start a European Championship with a bang.

In fact, they have only won one of their nine opening matches in the tournament's history. Not a great record, is it?

Let me take you through them:

• 1980: England 1-1 Belgium
• 1988: England 0-1 Republic of Ireland
• 1992: England 0-0 Denmark
• 1996: England 1-1 Switzerland
• 2000: England 2-3 Portugal
• 2004: England 1-2 France
• 2012: England 1-1 France
• 2016: England 1-1 Russia
• 2020: England 1-0 Croatia

They broke their slow-starting nature three years ago at Wembley, can they get off to a flyer tonight?

Right, while we await more news let's get back to the football, shall we?

This is the scene at the Veltins Arena, the home of Bundesliga side FC Schalke, where in just a few hours time England will face Serbia.

Unlike in the city of Gelsenkirchen, it is rather quiet in the stadium right now. But I can assure you, that will not be the case later.

Over 60,000 fans will be crammed into their later. The atmosphere will be buzzing, it will be some spectacle.

For now, though, it remains cal,.

Clear pictures are starting to come through.

This is the aftermath of the violent clashes in Gelsenkirchen. Tables and chairs are destroyed, and there is glass everywhere.

Multiple fans seem to have suffered gashes across there heads from objects thrown. It's not a pretty sight.

I did say we were learning more as the minutes go by.

Eye-witnesses at the scene have claimed that Serbia fans were attacked by locals and not England fans.

Mail Sport has also spoken to some of the Serbia fans caught within the melee, who have also declared that it was not England fans involved.

We will continue to bring you more as we know it.

More, and more news is coming into us as the minutes go by.

One fan managed to capture the incident on video, and it's fair to say the scenes are unsavoury.

In the mass brawl, tables and chairs were being thrown and even glasses were being lobbed.

The riot police did manage to come in and break it up, but a lot of damage seemed to have been already done.

If you want to watch what happened, the video is below.

If you do not like the sight of blood, scroll past this post now.

Photos have been streaming in across the last hour of some of the damage fans have endured after the shameful scenes we saw earlier.

Former England attacker Stan Collymore managed to capture this photo of a man with his head split open.

It seems very nasty, and it's not what we wanted to see today.

Thank you for the kind words, Adrian.

So, what have I missed? A lot it seems. The build-up to England's Euro 2024 opener against Serbia has not exactly been a quiet one.

Fighting between both sets of fans has dampened proceedings before the game even got underway.

It is not the best of starts, but let's hope everyone involved is ok.

Thanks for following along so far, I'm signing off for now but don't go anywhere as I'll be leaving you all in the very capable hands of Harry Bamforth.

Remember to stick right here for all the news and updates for England's Euro 2024 with kick-off now just four hours away...

Mail Sport's Craig Hope and Sami Mokbel have made their way to Gelsenkirchen and aside from a few travel delays and a potentially sticky situation on a German train seem to be enjoying their time.

During a stroll around the Veltins-Arena the pair shared their thoughts on Gareth Southgate's side ahead of tonight's clash.

It's been more than two decades since these two teams' last met, and the first since Serbia split with Montenegro in 2006.

With usual skipper David Beckham absent, Michael Owen was handed the armband for the friendly on a warm night at the King Power Stadium back in 2003.

With a certain Gareth Southgate starting in defence, England took an early lead through Steven Gerrard before the visitors equalised thanks to a goal from Nenad Jestrovic.

In typical Sven-Goran Eriksson style, England made ten changes throughout the second-half, including handing Chelsea youngster John Terry the first of his 79 caps.

With the game seemingly heading for a draw, Joe Cole popped up in the closing stages to secure victory for England.

I imagine more than a few fans would take a similar scoreline tonight...

Clashes are breaking out between England and Serbia fans in Germany ahead of the teams' opening match of the Euros later today.

Riot police have clashed with supporters outside a bar in Gelsenkirchen as violence boiled over for the first time this afternoon.

Officers moved in after trouble erupted between England and Serbian fans outside a restaurant just after 3.30pm.

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Although Gareth Southgate's side enter as sizeable favourites against the team ranked 33rd in the world by FIFA, Serbia possess a number of recognisable names in their squad.

Perhaps the biggest test for England will be how they deal with the attacking duo of Aleksandar Mitrovic and Dusan Vlahovic.

Mitrovic will be no stranger to fans of English football, having made more than 200 appearances for Newcastle and Fulham before moving to Al-Hilal last summer.

The 29-year-old remains the owner of the highest scoring season in English football with 43 goals in the Championship in 2021-22 and he would love to add to his 58 international goals tonight.

Meanwhile England will also need to be ready to deal with the sizeable threat posed by Vlahovic.

Mail Sport's Mike Keegan is in Gelsenkirchen and is reporting troubling scenes breaking out between supporters with police forced to intervene ahead of tonight's fixture.

More updates to follow...

Harry Kane, speaking to reporters on Saturday:

It would mean a lot. I love playing for England. It means the world to me and winning a major tournament would be one of the pinnacles of anyone's career. That's the aim.

For me the trophies haven't happened but it makes me more determined to do that. We have a good opportunity, a lot of hard work ahead, and we're looking forward to trying to make it happen.

What can be said that hasn't already about England's attacking talent?

The 'Golden Generation' moniker has rarely proved a helpful characterisation of a group of players but you would be hard-pressed to find such depth in any of England's previous tournament squads.

Of course, getting the team to click when it matters on the pitch is what's most important.

But if this clip of Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Saka linking up in training is anything to go by, the Three Lions could well roar tonight.

Gareth Southgate has revealed that all of his players trained ahead of today's which will no doubt come as a relief to England fans.

Still though, doubt remains over whether Luke Shaw is ready for place on the bench.

The Man United defender has been determined to get fit in time for the Euros following a hamstring injury but making the pitch tonight might prove a bridge too far for the 28-year-old.

More than 30,000 fans have descended on Gelsenkirchen with kick-off fast approaching.

There's a real feeling of excitement in the air as England look to banish the demons of Euro 2020 by getting off to a winning start tonight.

St George's Crosses are visible as far as the eye can see as the party atmosphere gets underway.

The moment England fans have been waiting for is finally upon us.

Whether at home or in Germany soaking up the atmosphere, a nervous excitement has taken hold of England fans everywhere with another major tournament soon to begin.

Gareth Southgate enters his fourth major tournament in charge of the Three Lions with his previous successes and the wealth of talent at his disposal bringing with them a serious weight of expectations.

At 8pm this evening England will take to the pitch against a not to be underestimated Serbia side looking to take the very first step in ending 58 years of hurt.

We'll have all the updates and action right here so stick around and let's get this party started.