Real Madrid midfielder delivers five-star performance in final group-stage game at World Cup | OneFootball

Real Madrid players are largely enjoying a positive run at the ongoing FIFA World Cup, and Jude Bellingham is one of those who has shone the brightest.

The midfielder, who had a relatively difficult season for Real Madrid, has been the heartbeat of his national team at the premier event and the numbers speak for themselves.

He was on the scoreboard in England’s opener against Croatia and was named the man of the match after his positive showing. He then started against Ghana, and was one of the team’s bright spots despite the poor result and even took home the man of the match award.

A third dominant show

England took on Panama in their final group stage fixture this weekend, and Bellingham, once again, was in the thick of things.

The Real Madrid star played 71 minutes on the night and single-handedly took it upon himself to seal the team’s win.

Making an impact. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)

Bellingham opened the scoring for England in the 62nd minute of the game, breaking the deadlock and enabling his side to get ahead. Just five minutes later, he provided a sumptuous assist to Harry Kane for the team’s second goal.

Beyond the goal and assist, the player ended the game with the most ground duels contested at 15, and the most ground duels won at 11. He made the most tackles (4) and won the most fouls (4) in the game as well.

In an attacking sense, he flourished once again as he racked up four chances created, four take-ons attempted and three completed, all of which were the best figures in the game. Bellingham also had the most goal involvements in the game.

What’s next for Bellingham and England?

England have topped Group L with seven of a possible nine points and are now set for a relatively favourable draw in the knockouts. 

In the Round of 32, they are now set to face the Democratic Republic of Congo in which they will be firm favourites to progress. 

One of Mexico or Ecuador will then await them in the Round of 16. In the quarterfinal, they could then have a big test against Brazil.

Regardless, the Three Lions will back themselves to make a deep run into the competition, possibly even go all the way. There is, however, also a sense of understanding that they are still far from their best version.