BELGRADE – England’s national team sent a powerful message to their World Cup rivals with a devastating 5-0 victory over Serbia in Belgrade on Tuesday, continuing their perfect start to the qualifying campaign under manager Thomas Tuchel.
The Three Lions produced a scintillating attacking display, with goals from Harry Kane, Noni Madueke, Declan Rice, Jack Grealish, and Marcus Rashford securing their fifth consecutive win. The match also saw a historic moment as defender Djed Spence became the first Muslim player to represent England’s senior men’s national team, coming on as a second-half substitute.
The performance was hailed as a statement of intent, significantly boosting optimism for the 2026 World Cup. Chelsea winger Noni Madueke was a particular standout, netting his first-ever international goal—a moment that prompted high-profile commentary. Broadcaster and avid Arsenal fan Piers Morgan took to X to remark, “Chelsea massively dropped the ball letting us [Arsenal] sign Madueke. He’s a… baller.”
Declan Rice was also instrumental in the midfield, contributing two assists to cap a dominant team performance. The comprehensive victory underscores the depth and firepower available to Tuchel as England continues its march towards the next World Cup.
