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It was a foregone conclusion as England's serene journey through the preliminary stage culminated in an formal place at the 2026 World Cup.

Match Highlights

Anthony Gordon netted the first goal in the 26th minute, bending a exquisite shot into the opposite side of the net.

The captain contributed a swift brace before the interval—initially with a powerful shot from the penalty arc, and later from the 12-yard mark after a VAR-reviewed foul.

England notched two more goals in the second period—one an inadvertent deflection by a opposition replacement, and another a clinical finish from the substitute.

Crowd Atmosphere

Throughout the match, the visiting supporters voiced good-natured songs at manager Thomas Tuchel, responding to his recent comments about the home support.

Lyrics such as "Our voices rise on our terms" and "Are we loud enough?" rang out around the intimate stadium.

Goalkeeping Achievement

England kept their impeccable defensive record in group matches, registering their latest clean sheet.

The Everton keeper extended his run of unbeaten matches for the national side to nine games.

Future Focus

Now guaranteed a spot, England can turn their attention to preparations for the global event.

Two matches are left in the preliminary round, but the team has officially won the section with a 100% record.

"It was a professional display from the team, and they did what was needed against resilient competitors."

• The Newcastle forward netted the opener.
• The captain scored a quick double.
• The visitors kept a zero conceded for the sixth straight qualifier.
• Eberechi Eze rounded off the scoring with a fifth finish.