England stormed back into Nations League A with a resounding 5-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland at Wembley.
In what started as a challenging game, the Three Lions turned the tide in spectacular fashion, delivering a second-half masterclass that saw five different players find the back of the net.
This commanding win not only sealed promotion but also set the stage for the Thomas Tuchel era, which begins in March with the World Cup qualifiers.
The first 45 minutes were anything but smooth for England. Despite dominating possession (75%) and controlling the tempo, the Three Lions struggled to break down a well-organized Irish defense.
Ireland, despite their lack of attacking intent, remained resolute, with goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher untested. England’s eight attempts on goal were blocked or off-target, summing up a frustrating half for Lee Carsley’s men.
The lack of a cutting edge highlighted England’s struggles to create clear opportunities. Fans at Wembley could only watch as the team’s build-up play failed to translate into meaningful chances. At halftime, the game remained locked at 0-0, with Ireland seemingly poised to frustrate their hosts further.
The game took a dramatic turn early in the second half when Liam Scales was sent off in the 51st minute. The Irish defender, already on a yellow card, brought down Jude Bellingham inside the box, conceding a penalty and leaving his side with ten men. It was a moment of recklessness that changed the trajectory of the match.
England’s captain, Harry Kane, stepped up to convert the resulting penalty, sending Kelleher the wrong way to open the scoring. With the lead in hand and Ireland down a man, the floodgates opened.
An extraordinary victory at @wembleystadium
The win confirms England have topped #NationsLeague Group B2 and secured promotion to League A for 2026-27. pic.twitter.com/Uz4ctG7BXS
— England (@England) November 17, 2024
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With the numerical advantage and momentum on their side, England piled on the pressure, and the goals flowed freely.
- Anthony Gordon scored his first international goal in the 55th minute, pouncing on a loose ball after a defensive error from Ireland. The Newcastle winger made no mistake, smashing it into the back of the net.
- Conor Gallagher joined the party just minutes later, tapping in from close range after a clever flick-on by Marc Guehi from a corner.
At 3-0, the Irish resistance crumbled. England’s fluid attacking play, led by the sensational Jude Bellingham, overwhelmed their opponents. Bellingham, who was instrumental throughout the game, delivered two sublime assists to cap off a memorable night.
- In the 76th minute, Jarrod Bowen, fresh off the bench, scored England’s fourth with a clinical finish following a beautifully worked set-piece routine.
- Finally, Taylor Harwood-Bellis, another debutant, rose highest to head home Bellingham’s pinpoint cross in the 79th minute, sealing a historic win for the Three Lions.
While the scoreline will grab the headlines, this game belonged to Jude Bellingham. The Real Madrid midfielder was everywhere—winning tackles, creating chances, and dictating the tempo. It was Bellingham who won the penalty for Kane’s opener, and it was his vision and creativity that led to England’s fourth and fifth goals.
Although he didn’t find the net himself, Bellingham’s performance was a reminder of why he’s considered one of the best young talents in world football. His influence ensured England didn’t just win—they won in style.
This victory marks the end of Lee Carsley’s interim tenure as England boss, and he leaves on a high note. Carsley’s faith in youth was evident, with players like Harwood-Bellis, Gordon, and Bellingham stepping up to deliver when it mattered most.
Now, all eyes turn to Thomas Tuchel, who takes over the reins in March. The German tactician will inherit a team brimming with confidence and young talent, perfectly poised for the challenges of World Cup qualification and future Nations League campaigns.
For Ireland, this game was a stark reminder of the gap between them and Europe’s elite. They defended valiantly in the first half, but Scales’ red card proved to be their undoing. Despite the loss, there were positives for the Irish to take away, particularly in their defensive organization during the opening 45 minutes.
However, failing to register a single shot on target highlighted their attacking frailties—a key area that manager Stephen Kenny will need to address ahead of the World Cup qualifiers.
Key Takeaways
- England’s Youth Impresses: The likes of Bellingham, Gordon, and Harwood-Bellis shone, signaling a bright future for the Three Lions.
- Bellingham the Maestro: His two assists and all-around display underlined his status as England’s talisman in midfield.
- Clinical Second Half: After a sluggish start, England showed their class by putting five past a resilient Irish side.
- Tuchel’s Challenge: The incoming manager has a strong foundation to build on but will face sterner tests ahead.
- Ireland’s Struggles: A resilient first half was undone by indiscipline and lack of attacking options.
