EnglandS Qualifying Record remains Strong Despite Lack of Memorable Moments
England‘s recent form in World Cup adn European Championship qualifiers is remarkably consistent, having gone unbeaten in these matches since 2009. Comparatively, only Spain (one) and Germany (three) have suffered fewer losses in Europe during that same period. Since qualifying for Euro 2004, England has played 108 qualifiers, achieving 84 wins and only six losses, scoring 292 goals while conceding just 51. This translates to a points-per-game ratio of 2.5, equivalent to approximately 95 points over a 38-game Premier League season – enough to win the title in all but three seasons.Despite this extraordinary record, truly enjoyable qualifiers have been rare, often viewed as stepping stones toward larger ambitions, namely winning the World Cup – a feat the men’s team last accomplished in 1966. Recent matches, like the 2-0 win against Andorra at Villa Park on Saturday, have even been played in front of critically important numbers of empty seats.
However, certain qualifying moments have resonated with fans. Captain David Beckham’s dramatic last-minute free-kick against Greece in October 2001, securing a 2-2 draw and qualification for the 2002 World cup, remains a standout. Similarly, Wayne Rooney’s impressive debut in April 2003, contributing to a 2-0 victory over Turkey in a Euro 2004 qualifier, is fondly remembered.
Conversely, the Euro 2008 qualifier against Croatia in November 2007 stands as a painful memory. Needing only a draw, England lost 3-2 at Wembley to a side already qualified, a match infamous for goalkeeper Scott carson replacing Paul Robinson and immediately fumbling a shot, giving Croatia the lead. A BBC Sport live text commentator at the time observed Carson looking ”dubiously at the penalty areas,” noting they were “nightmare conditions for any keeper.” The match also cemented manager Steve McClaren’s nickname, “Wally With The Brolly,” after a photograph of him sheltering under an umbrella during the downpour went viral.
