Jobe Bellingham described scoring his first goal for Borussia Dortmund as a “surreal” moment after marking his full debut with a match-winning performance in the Club World Cup on Saturday.
The 19-year-old, recently signed from Sunderland, found the net in Dortmund’s thrilling 4-3 victory over South African champions Mamelodi Sundowns at TQL Stadium, earning the man-of-the-match award in just his second appearance for the German giants.
“It’s a little bit surreal, really. When the ball hit the net, it was just crazy,” Bellingham said post-match. “Everything happened so slowly, but yeah, I’m really pleased.”
Bellingham’s goal, Dortmund’s third of the afternoon, was instinctively taken. After the Sundowns goalkeeper palmed a shot into his path, the teenager showed composure beyond his years, pausing momentarily to avoid a sliding defender before sending the keeper the wrong way with a calm finish.
It was an impressive outing for the younger brother of England star Jude Bellingham and a significant step as he looks to carve out his own legacy in the Bundesliga.
His performance came in challenging conditions, with sweltering midday heat in Ohio pushing temperatures to 32 degrees Celsius.
“I think the conditions made it really difficult, especially for us being a European team,” Bellingham said. “They [Sundowns] played a fantastic game and are probably more used to this kind of weather — we definitely aren’t. But it’s something we’ll have to adapt to as the tournament progresses.”
Bellingham joined Dortmund on a five-year deal in a reported €33 million (£28 million) move from Sunderland earlier this month. Unlike many new signings who arrive ahead of a summer break, the teenager has been thrown straight into action, an opportunity he is relishing.
“The lads have really helped me settle in,” he said. “It’s been different because instead of signing and then having a summer off, I’ve had a chance to meet everyone quickly and understand how the coach wants us to play.”
Dortmund manager Niko Kovac was full of praise for his new signing after the final whistle.
“He is among those who are the future of this club,” said Kovač. “We’re delighted with how he’s settled and the maturity he’s shown on and off the pitch.”
Dortmund’s win gives them a strong start in Group F as they chase their first global crown in the expanded tournament.