SERBIA 0-5 ENGLAND: The Three Lions headed to Belgrade for what was expected to be their toughest assignment in qualifying, but delivered a brilliant and ruthless display
England delivered the outstanding performance of the Thomas Tuchel era to crush Serbia 5-0 away from home and remind their rivals they will still be major players next summer.
The Three Lions headed to Belgrade in what was widely acknowledged as the toughest challenge Tuchel’s side will face before the World Cup starts in less than a year.
But goals from Harry Kane, Noni Madueke, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi and a late Marcus Rashford penalty mean England now have an iron grip on Group K, sitting seven points ahead of their nearest challengers.
England had won their opening four competitive fixtures under Tuchel – without conceding a goal – but the German boss faced criticism for some dour and unconvincing displays.
But after quietening a hostile home crowd with long periods of possession, Kane opened the scoring with a stooping header from a Declan Rice corner after the half-hour mark. And less than two minutes later, Madueke doubled the visitors’ lead after brilliant work from Morgan Rodgers.
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And England’s position was strengthened even further shortly into the second period as Aston Villa defender Konsa smashed home after a scramble in the box. Serbia’s night then went from bad to worse when skipper Nikola Milenkovic was shown red for a challenge on Kane, with Guehi nodding in from the resulting free kick.
Rashford then finished the scoring as he coolly slotted home from the penalty spot after Ollie Watkins was fouled in the box.
Here’s how Mirror Football ‘s Chief Football Writer John Cross rated the England players on a night which sparks optimism for their hopes next summer…
England (4-2-3-1)
Jordan Pickford 7
Another comfortable night. England have yet to concede in this qualifying campaign.
Reece James 7
Another solid display and James is unquestionably Tuchel’s No1 right back.
Ezri Konsa 7
So calm and composed for England and he got his first international goal.
Marc Guehi 8
Excellent. His strength, intelligence and quality are why he’s so sought after. Capped off performance with goal.
Tino Livramento 7
A good performance from left back as he really staked his claim.
Elliot Anderson 8
Another excellent performance. What a start to his England career.
Declan Rice 7
Provided an assist with the corner for the opener. Loved getting forward.
Noni Madueke 8
His pace and direct runs make him such a threat. Scored a terrific goal.
Morgan Rogers 8
An assist and a good all-round display as he was quick and slick.
Anthony Gordon 7
Booked. Added some pace, zip and threat from the left. Good display.
Harry Kane 7
Yet another goal to extend his record further. The captain led by example.
Substitutes
Spence, for James, 68 mins, 6
Rashford, for Gordon, 69 mins, 6
Watkins, for Kane, 76 mins, 6
Bowen, for Madueke, 76 mins, 6
Henderson, for Rice, 81 mins, 6.
Unused Subs: Quansah, Eze, Burn, D Henderson, Gibbs-White, Loftus-Cheek, Trafford.
Man of the match: Morgan Rogers Shaded it from a strong list of contenders. Made things happen.
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