In a contest marked by fluctuating fortunes, Jude Bellingham’s timely equalizer salvaged England from a potential consecutive home defeat at Wembley, countering defensive lapses that had placed them in jeopardy against Belgium in a friendly encounter.

Following a prior loss to Brazil, Gareth Southgate’s reconfigured lineup presented a blend of promise in attack juxtaposed with vulnerabilities at the back, a weakness exploited with precision by Belgium until Bellingham’s eleventh-hour intervention.

England’s custodian Jordan Pickford faltered, an unusual misstep in his otherwise sturdy international tenure, as his errant clearance paved the way for Youri Tielemans to break the deadlock after just 11 minutes.

Ivan Toney, in his maiden start for England, promptly equalized from the penalty spot six minutes later, registering his debut international goal subsequent to being felled by the experienced Jan Vertonghen.

Despite Jarrod Bowen’s effort being disallowed for offside, England’s defensive frailty resurfaced, permitting Belgium to reclaim the lead nine minutes before halftime.

Lewis Dunk’s lapse facilitated Romelu Lukaku to deliver a pinpoint cross, enabling Tielemans to nod home from close range.

Notwithstanding Belgium’s assertive display, England, buoyed by the impressive debut of 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo, carved out opportunities of their own.

Bellingham squandered two chances he would rue missing, while Phil Foden’s endeavour fizzled as his shot drifted wide with the goal beckoning.

Matz Sels, Belgium’s goalkeeper, thwarted Bowen’s attempt before Bellingham atoned for his earlier shortcomings, dispatching a decisive low strike in the dying embers of the game, thus securing England a barely merited draw.

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