- UEFA Open Enquiry Over English Fans’ Use Of Fireworks
JUDE Bellingham has been contacted by UEFA to explain a gesture he made following his dramatic late goal in England’s Euro 2024 win over Slovakia.
The Real Madrid superstar, 21, saved England from an embarrassing early exit with just 90 seconds left of Sunday’s Round of 16 tie with a majestic overhead kick to force extra-time. England went on to win the match 2-1 to set up a quarter-final tie with Switzerland this weekend – but a gesture made in the aftermath of his goal has led to the midfielder being investigated for a ‘potential violation of the basic rules of decent conduct’.
The Daily Star report that UEFA have written to Bellingham to explain himself after he appeared to cup his privates in the direction of the Slovakia bench, while the FA have also been contacted for an explanation on the player’s actions.
It’s outlined that members of the Slovakia coaching team will also be spoken to, to get their version of events. All parties will have 72 hours to respond.
Bellingham could face a ban or a fine if he is charged with misconduct. However, the FA are not only confident that the player will escape a ban but they also believe that a decision over the incident may not even happen until after the conclusion of Euro 2024.
Bellingham took to social media to defend himself in the aftermath of the incident, claiming the act was a joke aimed at friends who were attending the match in Gelsenkirchen.
The former Birmingham City man is England’s joint-top scorer at the tournament alongside Harry Kane after plundering two goals in four matches.
UEFA have also opened an investigation into England following the use of fireworks and crowd disturbances during the match.
“Following the review of the officials reports for England – Slovakia match, disciplinary proceedings have been opened against the English Football Association for lighting of fireworks and crowd disturbances. The CEDB will take a decision on this case in due course. No further proceedings were opened from this match,” A UEFA spokesperson told Mirror Football
England face Switzerland for a place in the Euro 2024 semi-finals in Dusseldorf on Sunday after the Swiss eliminated the reigning champions, Italy, last week.
