England 2–0 Serbia: O’Reilly lively on debut
Nico O’Reilly started at left flank and was a constant outlet, with his half-cleared effort leading to Bukayo Saka’s opener on 28 minutes. He later flashed a low cross onto the outside of the post.
John Stones delivered a composed 90 in central defence. Phil Foden replaced Harry Kane on 65 minutes, operated as a false nine and teed up Eberechi Eze for the clincher on 90’. James Trafford was an unused sub.
France 4–0 Ukraine: Cherki gets minutes as Les Bleus clinch
Rayan Cherki started centrally, making his third senior appearance before departing on 68’ with France 1–0 up via Kylian Mbappé’s 58’ penalty. Michael Olise (72’), Mbappé again (83’) and Hugo Ekitike rounded off a comprehensive 4–0 to book France’s place at the World Cup.
Republic of Ireland 2–0 Portugal: tough night for the Portuguese Blues
Troy Parrott struck twice in Dublin. Bernardo Silva and Rúben Dias started; Matheus Nunes was on the bench. Cristiano Ronaldo saw red just past the hour, and Bernardo was withdrawn on 63’. Portugal remain top of Group F with one to play.
Italy 2–0 Moldova: late show in Rome
Gianluigi Donnarumma was an unused substitute. The Azzurri left it late, with Gianluca Mancini and Pio Esposito scoring in the closing stages to postpone Norway’s qualification hopes until Sunday’s meeting in Milan.
Algeria 3–1 Zimbabwe (friendly): Aït-Nouri logs valuable minutes
Rayan Aït-Nouri started and played 62 minutes in Jeddah, exiting with Algeria already 3–0 up through Bounedjah, Amoura and Hadjam. He continues to build match fitness.
