England maintained their perfect record in World Cup 2026 qualifying with a solid 2-0 victory over Serbia at Wembley Stadium. This dominant performance showcased England's depth and tactical flexibility, leaving fans optimistic about their chances in the upcoming World Cup.
Player Ratings: Key Performers Shine
BBC Sport's Alex Howell provided detailed player ratings, highlighting standout performances. Here's a breakdown:
- Jordan Pickford (6): Had a quiet night, with Serbia offering little threat to the England goal.
- Reece James (6): Dominated the right flank, spending most of his time in attacking positions. A clear favourite of Thomas Tuchel and seemingly England's first-choice right-back.
- Ezri Konsa (6): Comfortable alongside the rest of the defence, distributing the ball well and initiating attacks from the back.
- John Stones (6): Stepped into midfield when Serbia sat back, forming a promising partnership with Konsa.
- Nico O'Reilly (7): Impressive debut, contributing to England's opening goal with a shot and almost scoring himself. A strong contender for the left-back position at the World Cup.
- Elliot Anderson (7): Solid performance in midfield, cementing his place as a likely starter for England at the World Cup.
- Declan Rice (6): A quieter game for Rice, but his set-piece delivery remains a significant threat.
- Morgan Rogers: Showed flashes of brilliance, initiating a promising attack in the first half.
Tuchel Praises England's Substitutes
Manager Thomas Tuchel lauded the impact of his substitutes, emphasising the team's growing strength and depth. The victory against Serbia demonstrated England's ability to control the game and secure a comfortable win.
Looking Ahead to the World Cup
With key players performing well and new talent emerging, England's World Cup prospects look bright. The team's tactical flexibility and defensive solidity will be crucial as they aim to compete for the title in 2026. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as England continues their World Cup journey!