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On a day when England faced every twist of weather imaginable, they still found reason to celebrate a footballer completely in his element.

After lightning, thunder, and torrential rain, Jude Bellingham shone with such brilliance that he may have settled all debate about his inclusion in England’s starting lineup against Croatia in Dallas on June 17.

England’s performance offered plenty of positives — Elliot Anderson’s composure in midfield and Anthony Gordon’s blistering pace on the left stood out — but this night at the Inter & Co Stadium in Orlando belonged to Bellingham.

England supporters turned up in large numbers, joyfully singing about a trip to New York for the World Cup final, their optimism fuelled by the display of their No. 10. “Juuuuude,” they chanted, full of belief. Perhaps Thomas Tuchel now shares that belief too.

This felt like the ultimate audition for Bellingham. Morgan Rogers, a favourite of Tuchel, has had plenty of vocal supporters pushing his case for the No. 10 role. England still have a training game against Miami United ahead, but this was the last significant test — and Bellingham aced it.

Heading into his fourth major tournament with England, Bellingham has already lifted both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League trophies with Real Madrid. Yet, his youth is often overlooked — he is only 22 and still developing. With his age, he could realistically feature in another half-dozen tournaments. Some of the criticism aimed his way is fair, particularly regarding his occasional attitude towards officials, but much is overblown.

On this night, he was careful in his dealings with referee Katja Koroleva, politely questioning a decision before accepting her explanation with a cheerful thumbs-up. It was a smart move — Koroleva, after all, holds honours in biology, a master’s in medical science, and further qualifications in Spanish and chemistry.

Bellingham faced a tough test here. From the first whistle, he sprinted 30 yards to close down Darryl Araya, setting the tone for England’s intensity. It was a statement of commitment to the collective effort — putting in hard work and covering ground. Though often accused of seeking the spectacular, much of his play was simple and selfless, distributing to teammates in better positions.

He constantly orchestrated the rhythm of play, taking a pass from Anderson, returning it, reclaiming it, linking next with Ezri Konsa and Noni Madueke. When Madueke squandered a perfect pass from him, Bellingham quickly offered encouragement rather than frustration.

He lifts his teammates while intimidating the opposition. Bellingham’s reputation alone brings a psychological edge. Costa Rica’s captain Orlando Galo shadowed him closely, while centre-back Fernan Faerron physically engaged him at corners — proof of his threat.

The breakthrough came from his involvement. In the 10th minute, Bellingham initiated the move with a curling outside-foot pass to John Stones. Gordon carried the ball forward, sprinting into the box, while Declan Rice held back, waiting in space. Both Rice and Bellingham signalled for the cutback; Gordon chose Rice, who finished confidently for his seventh goal in his 73rd appearance.

Bellingham’s commitment to team play was evident again. As Rice’s shot deflected off Galo and found the net, Bellingham celebrated passionately, racing to embrace the scorer — only Gordon got there first. When Reece James pressed high and regained possession later, Bellingham applauded the effort enthusiastically.

He combined neatly with Harry Kane for quick one-twos, saw one shot blocked, and later took the captain’s armband when both Kane and vice-captain Rice were substituted. Showing his versatility, he briefly operated as a false nine. It was his dribble from the left, skipping past defenders, that led to England’s second goal — his pass found Eberechi Eze, whose shot was handled. Gordon converted the resulting penalty, effectively sealing the contest before Tuchel substituted Bellingham.

He moved along the bench, exchanging high-fives and pats on the back from teammates, then joined in the applause as Ollie Watkins added a third goal. With his performance leaving no doubt, Bellingham’s starting spot in Dallas now appears certain.