Image credit: Getty Images
England maintained their flawless start to the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign with a commanding 5-0 victory over Serbia on Monday night, a result that showcased the influence of Arsenal stars Noni Madueke, Declan Rice, and Eberechi Eze.
Played at the Rajko Mitic Stadium, the match saw Thomas Tuchel’s side dominate throughout, with goals from Harry Kane, Madueke, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, and a late Marcus Rashford penalty sealing a comprehensive win.
Madueke, Arsenal’s £48.5 million summer signing from Chelsea, was singled out as one of England’s standout performers. The 23-year-old winger netted his first international goal in the 35th minute, latching onto a flick before dinking the ball over the goalkeeper. His pace and direct dribbling repeatedly unsettled Serbia’s back line, earning widespread praise from UK media outlets.
Declan Rice once again anchored the midfield, producing a commanding performance at both ends of the pitch. The Arsenal midfielder assisted two goals from set-pieces, a corner for Kane and a free-kick for Guehi while controlling the tempo with his defensive presence and forward surges. Analysts commended his adaptability to a more advanced role under Tuchel.
Declan Rice provided two assists for England against Serbia (Image credit: Getty Images)
Eberechi Eze, Arsenal’s £67.5 million signing from Crystal Palace, entered the fray in the 68th minute. Though his involvement was brief, the 27-year-old injected flair and creativity in the closing stages, maintaining England’s attacking momentum. While most outlets refrained from scoring his cameo, he was noted for his positive impact.
Post-match ratings reflected the Arsenal duo’s influence. Madueke and Rice both earned strong scores between 7–8.5, hailed as England’s key performers on the night. The Telegraph stopped short of numerical ratings but praised Madueke’s “cool finish” and Rice’s midfield dominance.
The Telegraph, while not assigning numbers, praised Madueke’s “cool finish” and Rice’s dominance in midfield.
The result not only strengthened England’s qualification hopes but also provided a timely confidence boost for Arsenal’s contingent. With the Premier League set to resume this weekend, Gunners fans will be encouraged by the form of Madueke, Rice, and Eze as Mikel Arteta’s side prepare for a crucial run of fixtures.