How Did Morgan Rogers Shine and Noni Madueke Impress in England's Match Against Serbia?

England showcased an outstanding performance under manager Thomas Tuchel with a 5-0 victory against Serbia, moving them closer to qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. This win marks a significant improvement from their previously underwhelming display against Andorra, demonstrating the potential of the Three Lions as they tackle tougher opponents.

Last updated: 18 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from England's Dominant Victory

Harry Kane opened the scoring with a header from a corner.
Noni Madueke scored his first England goal with a deft chip.
Ezri Konsa and Marc Guehi added to the scoreline, showcasing the team's depth.
Marcus Rashford capped off the night with a penalty goal.
England's defence remained solid, limiting Serbia's chances.

A Turning Point in the Tuchel Era?

Under Thomas Tuchel, England's football journey has seen mixed results. While their initial matches were less than inspiring, the 5-0 win in Belgrade marks a potential turning point. Tuchel, known for his tactical acumen, faced significant scrutiny after a slow start, but this emphatic victory may silence some sceptics.

England's Tactical Approach Against Serbia

England adopted a proactive and attacking style, which was evident from the onset of the match. Tuchel appeared to have instilled confidence in his players, allowing them to express themselves on the pitch. The team pressed effectively, maintained possession, and created numerous scoring opportunities throughout the game.

Key Player Performances

Several players stood out in this match, contributing to the overwhelming success. Harry Kane, in particular, led by example, scoring the first goal and showcasing his leadership on the field.

Harry Kane: The Captain's Role

Kane's goal not only set the tone for the match but also reinforced his importance to the team. With 109 caps, his experience is invaluable, and his ability to convert set-pieces remains a key asset for England.

Noni Madueke: Rising Star

Madueke's first international goal is a significant milestone. His ability to navigate through the Serbian defence and finish with precision highlights his potential as a future star for the Three Lions.

Defensive Solidity

England's defence was largely untroubled throughout the match. The partnership between Ezri Konsa and Marc Guehi proved effective against Serbia's attacks, particularly nullifying the threats posed by striker Dusan Vlahovic.

Match Analysis

From the opening whistle, England dominated possession, forcing Serbia to play defensively. The first goal came from a well-placed corner by Declan Rice, demonstrating England's preparation and strategic execution of set-pieces. Following the initial goal, the Three Lions quickly capitalised on their momentum, with Madueke doubling the lead shortly thereafter.

Second Half Surge

The second half saw England maintain their intensity. Ezri Konsa added the third goal, followed closely by a fourth from Marc Guehi, who capitalised on a free-kick situation. The sending off of Nikola Milenkovic further compounded Serbia's struggles, allowing England to control the game effectively.

Rashford's Late Goal

Marcus Rashford's penalty to round off the scoring capped off a stellar night for England. His confidence in front of goal will be crucial as the team progresses towards the World Cup qualifiers.

Player Ratings and Analysis

Following the match, player ratings reflected the overall performance of the squad. Here’s how each player was evaluated:

Jordan Pickford (GK) – 7: Despite being relatively unchallenged, he made a crucial save and maintained a clean sheet.
Kyle Walker (RB) – 7: Solid defensively and contributed to the attack, establishing himself as Tuchel’s preferred right-back.
Marc Guehi (CB) – 8: Strong performance, capped off with a goal. Effectively managed Serbia's attacking threats.
Ezri Konsa (CB) – 8: Not only did he defend well, but he also scored, contributing significantly to the victory.
Luke Shaw (LB) – 7: Provided support offensively and defended well against Serbia's attacks.
Declan Rice (CM) – 9: Dominated the midfield, breaking up play and supplying key passes; pivotal in both defence and attack.
Jordan Henderson (CM) – 7: Played a crucial role in maintaining possession and defensive stability.
Noni Madueke (RW) – 8: A constant threat on the right flank, scoring his first international goal.
Ollie Watkins (LW) – 6: Contributed to the team play but did not register a goal or assist.
Harry Kane (CF) – 8: Opened the scoring and provided leadership on the pitch.
Marcus Rashford (SUB) – 7: Scored from the penalty spot and brought energy to the final minutes of the game.

Looking Ahead: What This Means for England

This victory places England in a strong position for World Cup qualification. With the momentum gained from this decisive win, the squad can approach their upcoming fixtures with renewed confidence. Tuchel’s tactical decisions and the players’ performances suggest a promising future for the team.

As the Three Lions continue their journey, the focus will be on maintaining this form and solidifying their place among the top contenders for the World Cup. The blend of experienced players and emerging talents could be the key to success as they aim for glory on the international stage.

FAQs

What was the final score of the England vs Serbia match?

England won the match 5-0 against Serbia, marking a significant victory in their World Cup qualifying campaign.

Who scored for England in the match?

Goals were scored by Harry Kane, Noni Madueke, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, and Marcus Rashford, who converted a penalty.

How did the England defence perform against Serbia?

The defence was solid, largely limiting Serbia's scoring opportunities and maintaining a clean sheet. Konsa and Guehi were particularly effective.

What does this win mean for England's World Cup qualification?

This victory puts England in a strong position for qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, boosting morale and confidence within the squad.

Who is Thomas Tuchel and what is his role with the England team?

Thomas Tuchel is the head coach of the England national football team, appointed to replace the previous manager. His role involves developing tactics and strategies to enhance the team's performance.

As England moves forward, the combination of experience and emerging talent could lead to exciting prospects in upcoming matches. How will the team build on this momentum? #ThreeLions #WorldCup2026 #Football