ENGLAND 2-0 ANDORRA: A first-half own goal and a Declan Rice header ensured victory for Thomas Tuchel's men at Villa Park, but again the Three Lions left fans wanting more against the European minnows
England did what they needed to do against Andorra, but it wasn't great again
England did what they needed to do against Andorra, but it wasn't great again
(Image: 2025 The FA)
England defeated Andorra 2-0 at Villa Park as they continued their stroll towards next summer's World Cup. But again Thomas Tuchel's men failed to inspire.
The Three Lions scored in either half, an own goal by Christian Garcia giving them a half-time lead before Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice - afforded more freedom with debutant Elliot Anderson sitting in midfield - headed home in the second period.
Chances came and went in the second half for the hosts, but it was another largely frustrating watch. Yes it was job done and there are now four wins from four in World Cup qualifying. But in Serbia on Tuesday night, they'll need to be much improved for what will undoubtedly be a much stiffer test. Here are player ratings from Villa Park...
England (4-3-3)
Jordan Pickford 6
Largely a spectator but at least he was kept busy with a couple of suspect back passes.
Reece James 7
Undoubtedly Tuchel’s first choice right back and his cross for Rice showed why.
Marc Guehi 6
Needed an afternoon off after his turbulent week. Was able to put his feet up.
Dan Burn 6
Looked very comfortable and is clearly one of Tuchel’s favourites. Solid display.
Myles Lewis-Skelly 6
Has not been starting for Arsenal and did not really seize his chance.
Elliot Anderson 8 MOTM
England’s best player. Highly-impressive debut in a good audition for the No.6 role.
Elliot Anderson of England really impressed on his senior debut
Elliot Anderson of England really impressed on his senior debut(Image: 2025 The FA)
Declan Rice 7
Scored with a nicely-taken header to lift the mood in the second half.
Eberechi Eze 6
A bit ponderous and wasted a couple of big chances. Underwhelming display.
Noni Madueke 7
Lively down the right. He is definitely nailing down a World Cup place.
Harry Kane and Noni Madueke of England celebrate their side's first goal, an own goal by Christian Garcia
Harry Kane and Noni Madueke of England celebrate their side's first goal, an own goal by Christian Garcia
Marcus Rashford 6
Started well but faded away. Missed a huge chance in the second half.
Harry Kane 6
He must have thought he would get some goals - but was largely frustrated.
Substitutes
Gordon, for Rashford, 68 mins, 6
Livramento, for James, 68 mins, 6
Rogers, for Rice, 68 mins, 6
Konsa, for Guehi 76 mins
Gibbs-White, for Eze, 78 mins
Subs not used: Trafford, D Henderson, Spence, J Henderson, Loftus-Cheek, Watkins, Bowen.
Andorra (5-4-1): I Alvarez 7; Borra 6, Llovera 6, C Garcia 5, Olivera 6, San Nicolas 6; Rodrigo 5, M Vales 5 (Guillen, 59, 6), Babot 5, Carvos 5; R Fernandez 5 (Lopez, 59).
Subs: Pires, Ruiz, Da Cunha, Rebes, De las Heras, E Vals, Martinez, Rubio, Da Silva, M Garcia.
Referee: Mohammad Al-Emara 6
Man of the match: Elliot Anderson: Took his chance and shone - even if it was only against Andorra.
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