On this day in 1999 the Stadium of Light held its first international tie as England took on Belgium.
It was a coup for both Sunderland AFC and the city as the Three Lions took to the field, but it was a Tynesider who stole the show early on as Newcastle United striker Alan Shearer opening the scoring after just six minutes.
Debutants Steve Guppy and Frank Lampard were both involved in the opening goal, as the former’s inswiging corner was diverted at goal by Lampard following Tony Adams’ flick on.
Shearer did the rest producing an excellent overhead kick and England led 1-0.
Belgium fought back, however, and went on to level with 14 minutes played as Branko Strupar turned the ball home, but manager Kevin Keegan turned the tide in the Three Lions’ favour as the hour-mark approached with with Michael Owen replacing Wearside hero Kevin Phillips.
Phil Neville was also introduced and the fresh legs added a new vigour to England’s attacking play, and they took full advantage with 66 minutes on the clock as Jamie Redknapp’s fierce drive cannoned off the underside of the crossbar and across the line.
Both sides created chances with Dennis Wise and Emile Heskey both coming off the bench, but it would remain 2-1 as England prepared for their Euro 2000 showdown with Scotland with a win on Wearside.
Check out the best pictures from the game in the gallery below.
