Gareth Southgate's England continued their flawless start to the World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign with a commanding 2-0 victory over Serbia at a vibrant Wembley Stadium. The Three Lions were in control for the majority of the match, with goals from Bukayo Saka and substitute Eberechi Eze sealing the three points and extending the team's remarkable run of clean sheets.
Match Overview and Key Moments
The home side started brightly and never truly looked back after Bukayo Saka's superb volley opened the scoring in the first half. Serbia offered a physical challenge, particularly through striker Dusan Vlahovic, but the English defence, marshalled by the experienced John Stones, stood firm. The second half saw England manage the game effectively, with the introduction of several substitutes adding fresh impetus and culminating in Eze's well-taken goal to put the result beyond doubt.
England Player Ratings Analysis
Jordan Pickford (6): The Everton goalkeeper equalled a national record with his 10th consecutive clean sheet, a feat that was rarely under serious threat, though he did survive one nervy moment with a risky pass out from the back.
Reece James (8): A constant menace down the right flank, James was a potent attacking force and untroubled in his defensive duties, appearing to have rediscovered his very best form.
Nico O'Reilly (7): Making his senior international debut, the young midfielder did not seem overawed by the occasion. He was involved in the build-up to the opening goal and provided excellent balance on the left side.
Ezri Konsa (7): Coped admirably with the physical presence of Vlahovic. His performance suggests a direct battle with Marc Guéhi to be John Stones's regular partner in central defence.
John Stones (7): The Manchester City defender was his usual composed self, reading the game expertly to snuff out danger before it could develop in a relatively quiet but flawless outing.
Elliot Anderson (8): Looking completely assured on the international stage, Anderson acted as England's metronome in midfield. He kept possession ticking over and was consistently proactive with his forward passing.
Declan Rice (9): The Arsenal man was awarded the star man accolade for a typically all-action display. He covered every blade of grass and provided moments of pure quality, including a brilliant reverse pass that should have resulted in a goal for Marcus Rashford.
Marcus Rashford (6): Given a rare start, the forward showed flashes of his confidence with a cheeky first-half nutmeg but was ultimately unable to convert his chance and was substituted in the second half.
Morgan Rogers (7): Some sublime early touches from the attacker immediately excited the Wembley crowd. He headed his only clear chance wide but did enough to suggest he has a bright international future.
Bukayo Saka (7): Scored a wonderful volley to break the deadlock and was a persistent threat, though his understanding with right-back Reece James is an area that can still be refined before the World Cup.
Harry Kane (7): The captain should have scored with his only clear sight of goal from a corner but compensated with a couple of outstanding passes that launched dangerous England attacks.
Impact from the Bench
The substitutes made a significant collective impact after being introduced around the 65-minute mark. Eberechi Eze, who replaced Rashford, immediately looked more dangerous and capped his cameo with a brilliantly taken goal. Phil Foden, operating as a false nine, showed promise and provided the assist for Eze's goal. Jude Bellingham looked eager to make an impression on his return, and Jordan Henderson delivered a reliable performance, including a great cross for a Foden chance. Adam Wharton had little time to make an impact after coming on for his second cap.
This victory solidifies England's position at the top of their qualifying group and provides Southgate with positive selection headaches, particularly in a midfield that looks increasingly fluid and creative.
