Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham England
(Credit: ITVX / Getty Images)
Ben Palmer
Mon 24 March 2025 22:16, UK
Jude Bellingham was “very lucky” not to be sent off “reckless” challenge in England’s game against Latvia, according to Keith Hackett.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that Thomas Tuchel made a smart decision in substituting the Real Madrid superstar shortly after his narrow escape.
England took the lead through a stunning freekick from Reece James after 38 minutes, although his celebration did leave Lee Dixon a little perplexed.
Arsenal target Harry Kane then doubled the Three Lions’ lead, with a simple tap-in after some fantastic work from Declan Rice.
Tottenham target Eberechi Eze then made it 3-0, having come off the bench, wriggling past the Latvia defence to score his first senior England goal.
However, a moment of madness from Bellingham in the 57th minute drew the attention of Hackett.
Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham
Jude Bellingham was lucky to stay on the pitch against Albania. (IMAGO/ONE INCH PRODUCTIONS ATHENS)
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Jude Bellingham escapes punishment after silly challenge
With England completely in control of the play, but only holding a slender 1-0 lead, Bellingham flung himself into a challenge on Raivis Jurkovskis in the 57th minute.
Getting little of the ball and a lot of the man, the Real Madrid star looked set to receive his marching orders, having picked up a yellow card just before half-time.
However, referee Orel Grinfeeld chose to be lenient with the midfielder, having a whispered word with the 21-year-old.
Latvia were incensed at the referee’s decision, feeling that the decision more than warranted a sending off and Jurkovskis was only able to play four more minutes before being substituted.
Sensing a mood shift, Tuchel made the decision to substitute England’s number 10 just 10 minutes later, a decision praised by former FIFA referee, Hackett.
Thomas Tuchel makes excellent call in bringing Jude Bellingham off
Having seen the decision, former PGMOL chief, Hackett, had this to say about the challenge and the accompanying refereeing verdict, saying:
“Bellingham, already on a yellow card makes a reckless challenge on his opponent.
“It is a clear yellow card offence but the referee decides to take no action. Bellingham very lucky to be on the pitch.
“Tuchel really should do the wise thing and take Bellingham off. One mistimed challenge and Bellingham will get his marching orders.”
Hackett later added: “Well done Tuchel bringing Bellingham off.”
England will face Andorra in their next match in 7 June, as they look to maintain their 100% win rate in World Cup qualifying so far.
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