Jude Bellingham is set to play for England in their Euro 2024 quarterfinal against Switzerland after receiving a suspended one-game ban for his controversial celebration following his goal against Slovakia in the previous round. European football's governing body, UEFA, announced on Friday that Bellingham would be fined 30,000 euros ($32,477) and suspended for one match, though the suspension is on hold for a probationary period of one year.
UEFA's statement highlighted that Bellingham violated the basic rules of decent conduct, and his suspension would only be enforced if he commits another offense within the probation period. Bellingham's celebration, which involved a provocative gesture seemingly directed at Slovakia's bench, came after his dramatic stoppage-time equalizer that kept England in the tournament.
Bellingham, a key player for Real Madrid, is expected to start for England in their quarterfinal match in Düsseldorf on Saturday evening. He has been instrumental in England's journey to the last eight, scoring twice in four matches, despite the team not delivering consistently strong performances throughout the tournament.
England faces Switzerland with a significant opportunity to progress, especially as they find themselves on the more favorable side of the knockout bracket, avoiding other major tournament favorites. A victory over Switzerland, who eliminated Italy in the last 16 and performed well in a draw against hosts Germany, would propel England into a semifinal clash against either Turkey or the Netherlands.
Meanwhile, Germany will face Spain, and Portugal will take on France on the other side of the bracket. Under Gareth Southgate's leadership, England has a history of reaching the latter stages of major tournaments but has yet to secure a title, having fallen short in recent Euros and World Cups.
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