RAHEEM STERLING sent the nation into meltdown as he scored England’s opening goal in the European Championships.
The Manchester City forward was given the nod ahead of in-from Jack Grealish against Croatia at Wembley.
That pass from Kalvin Phillips
Watch & listen: https://t.co/txmDmNkj3v#ENGCRO #Euro2020 #bbceuro2020 pic.twitter.com/03A0J7mLi5
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) June 13, 2021
And he repaid Gareth Southgate’s faith as he put England in front after 57 minutes after a great run from Kalvin Phillips.
The Leeds midfielder drove with the ball before cutting in and laying it off to Sterling, who expertly slotted home.
Fans were pictured in jubilation celebrating the goal and were also full of praise online for the Premier League pair.
One tweeted: “Kalvin Phillips is a baller! Hats off.”
Another posted: “Kalvin Phillips, take a bow.”
One wrote: “The Yorkshire Pirlo.”
#EURO2020 GET IN YOU BEAUTY!
Well done lads @Kalvinphillips & @sterling7
#ENG https://t.co/5Me1ZT24js
— Oliver Newman (@AFanPerspective) June 13, 2021
Kalvin Phillips, take a bow
https://t.co/5hTbk295KW
— Jemma Purfield (@JemmaPurfield) June 13, 2021
Sterling’s strike proved decisive as England held out for a 1-0 win, avenging their heartbreaking 2018 World Cup semi-final defeat to Croatia.
It gives Southgate’s side the perfect start as the Three Lions won their opening Euros match for the first time ever.
Scotland and Czech Republic follow England tomorrow at Hampden Park.
England play rivals Scotland afterwards next Friday, before their final group stage match against Czech Republic on Tuesday 22.
