England crushed Serbia 5-0 in an electrifying World Cup qualifier match in Belgrade, putting themselves in a strong position for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. This dominant win keeps England’s 100% record intact in Group K, giving them a seven-point lead at the top and boosting their qualification hopes.
The Three Lions started strong under coach Thomas Tuchel, with Harry Kane opening the scoring in style. In the 31st minute, Kane headed in a perfect corner from Declan Rice for his record-breaking 74th goal for England. Just two minutes later, Noni Madueke grabbed his first international goal with a cool finish after a brilliant team move involving Elliot Anderson and Morgan Rogers. England led 2-0 at halftime, a far cry from their narrow 1-0 win over Serbia in the Euro 2024 group stage.
Coming out firing in the second half, England extended their lead early. Ezri Konsa powered home his first goal for the national team from a rebound after Anthony Gordon’s shot. Serbia’s night turned sour on the 72nd minute when Nikola Milenkovic received a red card for fouling Kane on a clear goalscoring chance. Three minutes later, Marc Guéhi tapped in from close range off another Rice delivery, making it 4-0.
Ollie Watkins thought he’d netted a fifth, but the goal got ruled out for offside. No worries though—Marcus Rashford sealed the thrilling 5-0 victory with a confident penalty kick after Strahinja Erakovic fouled Watkins late in the game.
Earlier, Declan Rice tested Serbia’s keeper Djordje Petrovic with a shot from outside the box, while Serbia had a few scares, like Kosta Nedeljkovic’s deflected effort that Jordan Pickford easily saved. England ramped up the pressure, with Gordon and Kane creating chances before the breakthrough.
This massive England vs Serbia result in the World Cup qualifiers shows Tuchel’s side means business. Fans are buzzing about their path to the 2026 tournament—could this be the start of another deep run for the Three Lions?
