World Cup Qualifier: Declan Rice Heads in Winner as England Beats Andorra

England edges past Andorra in World Cup Qualifier

England secures a 2-0 win over Andorra in World Cup qualifying, with Declan Rice scoring the decisive goal. Get the latest match highlights and updates.

The match remained intense, with both teams creating chances. Ian Olivera had an opportunity for Andorra...

England secured a 2-0 win over Andorra, extending their lead at the top of FIFA World Cup qualifying Group K. This victory marks another milestone in England's perfect head-to-head record against Andorra, with eight wins and an impressive aggregate score of 28-0.

Thomas Tuchel's team had to exercise patience, much like their previous encounter in June, where Andorra's defensive strategy proved challenging. At Villa Park, Andorra employed various tactics to keep England at bay, but ultimately, the Three Lions' skill and determination paid off.

Debutant Elliot Anderson was instrumental in dictating the pace of the game, showcasing his skills and creativity on the field. He formed a promising partnership with Noni Madueke, who displayed a strong sense of determination and intent in his play. Their connection led to a notable opportunity, as they combined to set up Eberechi Eze for a shot that unfortunately got saved.

Madueke also had a chance to score, but his strike was blocked by Éric Vales, highlighting the defensive efforts of the opposing team. Eze faced a strong defensive response as well, with Max Llovera making a crucial last-ditch intervention to deny him a scoring opportunity.

The team's attack was also fueled by Reece James's menacing crosses, one of which almost resulted in a goal for Harry Kane and Noni Madueke. The cross agonizingly evaded both players, leaving the team to capitalize on future scoring chances.

Another step closer to @FIFAWorldCup qualification 👊 pic.twitter.com/soaVCrzQAp

— England (@England) September 6, 2025

England's wait for an opener wasn't long, thanks to a fortunate deflection. Noni Madueke's cross was headed towards goal by Christian García, and the ball ended up past Iker Álvarez in the 25th minute, giving England the lead.

Despite falling behind, Andorra's Tricolors maintained their compact defensive shape. They continued to threaten England's goal, with Christian García reaching Declan Rice's inviting corner kick ahead of Harry Kane. However, García headed the ball over the bar, missing a chance to equalize for Andorra.

After the restart, Noni Madueke created another scoring opportunity for England, but Álvarez made a crucial save to deny Eberechi Eze's attempt. Marcus Rashford had a chance to score, but disappointingly sent his strike wide. The Andorran goalkeeper, Álvarez, made a brilliant save to prevent Elliot Anderson from scoring a debut goal, redeeming himself after a lax pass earlier in the game.

The match remained intense, with both teams creating chances. Ian Olivera had an opportunity for Andorra, but his shot flew over the bar. Despite Andorra's increased attacking intent, they couldn't trouble England's Jordan Pickford. The deadlock was finally broken in the 67th minute when Reece James delivered a pinpoint cross that Declan Rice headed home, securing the win for England.

Thomas Tuchel made several substitutions after England's second goal, but Morgan Gibbs-White's effort from Noni Madueke's cross wasn't quite enough to add to the scoreline. The shot was comfortably saved by Andorra's goalkeeper, Álvarez.

England maintained their flawless record in World Cup qualifying, extending their streak to four consecutive wins. This impressive performance sets them up well for their upcoming match against Serbia, currently their closest competitors in Group K.

Andorra, on the other hand, remains at the bottom of the table, struggling to find their footing in the qualifiers. Their latest loss marks their 60th defeat in World Cup qualifying history, highlighting the challenges they've faced in international competition.