England duo Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham have been handed a lifeline after their actions following the 2-1 win over Slovakia.
Bellingham was captured making a lewd gesture in the direction of Slovakia’s bench after he forced extra time in Gelsenkirchen with a spectacular overhead kick. Any "obscene gesture" or "offensive or insulting action" should result in a red card, under the game's rules crafted by UEFA and FIFA.
The Real Madrid star later stated on social media that it was an “inside joke gesture” towards his friends who were at the game and that he meant no harm or hatred. “Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight,” wrote the England midfielder.
