The latest round of FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers delivered a series of emphatic performances across Europe. England thrashed Serbia 5-0, while Norway’s Erling Haaland scored five goals in a stunning display as his side maintained their perfect record. Portugal and France also secured crucial victories, strengthening their campaigns.
England Silence Critics with Five-Star Display
England manager Thomas Tuchel answered critics after a sluggish win over Andorra with a commanding victory in Belgrade.
- Harry Kane opened the scoring in the 33rd minute, netting his 74th international goal.
- Just two minutes later, Noni Madueke doubled the lead with a composed finish past Serbia’s Djordje Petrovic.
- Ezri Konsa grabbed his first international goal early in the second half.
- Marc Guehi added a fourth after a foul on Kane saw Nikola Milenkovic sent off.
- Marcus Rashford sealed the win with a late penalty.
England now sit on the verge of qualifying for an eighth consecutive World Cup, with their next test coming against Latvia.
Haaland Headlines Norway’s 11-1 Rout
Norway’s 11-1 demolition of Moldova was a showcase of attacking brilliance. Erling Haaland scored a first-half hat-trick, added a fourth soon after the break, and later converted his fifth.
- Martin Odegaard contributed with a goal and two assists.
- Thelo Aasgaard came off the bench to complete a hat-trick within 11 minutes.
- Moldova managed a consolation through an own goal from Leo Ostigard.
With five wins from five, Norway are firmly on track for their first World Cup appearance since 1998, sitting comfortably ahead of Italy in Group I.
France Edge Iceland in Tight Contest
At the Parc des Princes, France overcame Iceland 2-1.
- Arni Gudjohnsen gave Iceland a surprise lead.
- Kylian Mbappe equalized with a penalty before setting up Bradley Barcola for the winner.
- Despite Aurélien Tchouameni’s red card, France held firm to stay top of Group D.
Portugal Complete Late Comeback Against Hungary
In Budapest, Portugal defeated Hungary 3-2.
- Barnabas Varga twice struck for Hungary.
- Bernardo Silva and Cristiano Ronaldo replied, with Ronaldo scoring his 141st international goal.
- Joao Cancelo clinched the win in the final minutes, keeping Portugal perfect in Group F.
A Night of European Drama
From England’s dominance to Haaland’s historic five-goal haul, the night highlighted Europe’s fierce competition as teams edge closer to securing spots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
