June 16, (THEWILL) – England continued their impeccable start to Euro 2024 qualifying with a commanding 4-0 triumph over Malta on Friday evening.
Gareth Southgate’s men wasted no time asserting their dominance, taking an early lead in the eighth minute. Trent Alexander-Arnold, deployed in a midfield role, threaded a precise pass to Bukayo Saka, whose cross was inadvertently directed into the net by Ferdinando Apap. The Three Lions doubled their advantage just before the half-hour mark when James Maddison’s pass to Harry Kane was intercepted, but the loose ball fell to Alexander-Arnold, who stylishly curled it into the top corner from just outside the penalty area.
England swiftly added to their tally as they earned a penalty moments. Declan Rice’s powerful strike from distance was spilled by goalkeeper Henry Bonello, prompting Matthew Guillaumier to foul Kane in the ensuing scramble. The England captain confidently stepped up and converted the spot-kick, becoming the first player to reach 50 competitive goals for his country. Saka also tested Bonello’s reflexes just before the half-time whistle.
In the second half, England continued to dictate proceedings, with substitute Phil Foden providing a spark of creativity. Foden unlocked the Maltese defense with a precise pass to Kane, whose deft chip was cleared off the line by Steve Borg’s timely intervention. Southgate seized the chance to give Ebere Eze his Three Lions debut, making him the 18th Crystal Palace player to represent England.
With victory all but secured, England were awarded a second penalty when Callum Wilson’s cross struck Borg’s hand, confirmed by a VAR check. Wilson confidently dispatched the penalty, capping off a comprehensive 4-0 win for the visitors. England’s next match is set for Monday night at Old Trafford, where they will go head-to-head against North Macedonia. Meanwhile, Malta will be taking on Ukraine in their upcoming fixture.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
