England emphatically launched their World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign with a dominant 6-1 victory over Serbia in Belgrade, fueled by a brace from Harry Kane and a debut goal for Ezri Konsa.The result marks a resounding start for Gareth Southgate’s side as thay aim to secure qualification for the tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The match, played amidst a tense atmosphere with disruptions in the stands, saw England assert their dominance from the outset. Kane opened the scoring with a header from a Declan Rice corner,signaling intent. Further goals came from Jude Bellingham, a Konsa header following a save, and late strikes from Rashford and Watkins, solidifying a comprehensive win. This victory underscores England’s ambition and sends a clear message to their qualifying group opponents.
Kane’s opening goal, a precise header from Rice’s outswinging corner, set the tone. Rice himself had earlier tested Serbia’s goalkeeper,Djordje Petrovic,while Anthony Gordon consistently threatened. A promising move from Jarrad Rogers released Madueke, nearly creating an prospect for kane.
England continued to press after halftime,with Serbia appearing deflated.Rice’s shot went off target,a rare miss in an or else strong performance,before Konsa scored after Petrovic parried Gordon’s low blast,with Guéhi providing the assist.The match was briefly marred by unrest in the stands, with clashes between Serbia supporters and intervention from riot police. shortly after, Serbia’s Milenkovic received a red card for a challenge on Kane. Tuchel then introduced djed Spence for his debut, before Guéhi converted a Rice free-kick and Rashford scored from a penalty awarded after a foul on Ollie Watkins.
Tuchel has emphasized the importance of translating training ground performance into matches, and this result represents a significant step in that direction.
