Bellingham: This is My Responsibility, and We Showed Our True Essence

Jude Bellingham, the star midfielder of the England national team, appeared in a press statement following the 4-2 victory over the Croatian team in the first round of the group stage of the 2026 World Cup.

The English star said in his speech: "In the second half specifically, we showed our true essence and the team we aspire to be. I think in the first half we were still a bit tense and cautious. We were rushing a bit in possession, but in the second half, we created a great rhythm and you saw the best of us."

He added about his conversation with Thomas Tuchel during halftime: "It wasn't the kind of talk that causes a big stir or requires shouting; it was what the team needed. We have a mature group with outstanding leaders; everyone knew the level we needed to reach. The start of the second half gave us a strong foundation."

Regarding the build-up to the attack that preceded his goal: "I don't remember all 23 passes. I remember Elliott's pass was brilliant, and Noni Madueke was trying to take the ball from in front of my feet, but he didn't stand a chance. The work put into creating such a play takes us weeks to perfect correctly. Credit goes to the coach and his technical staff, as they placed us in the right positions to capitalize on those opportunities."

He continued: "My responsibility towards the team and my country is to do my utmost when I cross the finish line and wear the national team's emblem. I want to give everything I can; it has been a long season for me, and I have missed more camps than I would like."

He concluded: "The second half was more than just glimpses, in my opinion. The level of enthusiasm without the ball was at its peak; and the substitutions that came in were fantastic. The attacking pressure was extremely effective."