England‘s emphatic 7-0 victory over Montenegro at Wembley wasn’t just about securing Euro 2024 qualification – it was a statement of intent. As Babu88 tactical analysts, we dive deeper than the scoreline to examine the individual brilliance that made this historic 1,000th international match unforgettable.
Wembley’s Goal Fest: Breaking Down the Dominance
The Three Lions roared to life with their most comprehensive performance in recent memory. While the scoreline tells one story, our Babu88 experts reveal the nuanced performances that created this masterpiece:
Defensive Pillars With Offensive Flair
Jordan Pickford – 8/10
The Everton keeper’s two crucial saves (including a spectacular one-on-one denial) preserved the clean sheet when the game was still competitive. His distribution launched several attacks, proving he’s more than just a shot-stopper.
Ben Chilwell – 9/10
The left-back redefined modern fullback play with three assists – a feat no England defender had achieved in a decade. His pinpoint crosses from open play and set pieces dismantled Montenegro’s defense systematically.
Chilwell’s attacking contribution was unparalleled among defenders
Midfield Maestros Controlling Tempo
Harry Winks – 8/10
The metronome at the base of midfield completed 95.5% of his passes, dictating England‘s rhythm. His visionary through-ball to Sancho in the first half deserved an assist.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – 8/10
Liverpool’s in-form midfielder translated his club confidence to international level, scoring the opener with a composed finish and creating chances throughout.
Oxlade-Chamberlain’s return to form adds depth to England’s midfield
Attacking Fireworks
Harry Kane – 9/10
The captain’s perfect hat-trick (left foot, right foot, header) took his tally to 9 goals in 5 games. His movement and finishing were textbook examples of center-forward play.
Jadon Sancho – 8/10
The young winger terrorized Montenegro’s defense with his dribbling, eventually assisting Abraham’s goal. His performance justified Southgate’s continued faith in youth.
Marcus Rashford – 8/10
Despite some missed chances, Rashford’s direct running and powerful finish showcased his growing maturity in an England shirt.
Impact Substitutes
Tammy Abraham – 8/10
The Chelsea striker’s well-taken first international goal highlighted England‘s attacking depth. His positioning and finish suggest he’ll push Kane harder than any previous understudy.
Tactical Takeaways From Babu88 Experts
Former England defender turned Babu88 analyst Mark Thompson notes: “Southgate’s 4-3-3 system allowed the fullbacks to dominate wide areas while the midfield trio maintained perfect balance. What impressed me most was the variety of goals – set pieces, crosses, through balls – showing this team can break down any defense.”
Looking Ahead to Euro 2024
This performance sends a clear message to England’s Euro 2024 rivals. With clinical finishing, creative fullbacks, and midfield control, Southgate has built a squad capable of challenging for the title. The emergence of Chilwell as an attacking force and Kane’s relentless scoring form make England genuine contenders.
As Babu88 head of analysis Sarah Williamson concludes: “When England play with this intensity and creativity, they can beat anyone. The challenge now is reproducing this against elite opposition – but the foundations are certainly there.”
What were your standout moments from England’s dominant display? Share your thoughts with fellow fans in the comments below and follow Babu88 for more in-depth tactical analysis of the Euro 2024 qualifiers.
