England’s emphatic 5-0 victory over 10-man Republic of Ireland secured their promotion to the Nations League top flight, with four players marking their international debuts with goals. Interim manager Lee Carsley’s final game in charge saw England dominate from the start, but it was a second-half penalty from Harry Kane that broke the deadlock.
Tino Livramento’s deflected cross found Anthony Gordon, who volleyed home his first international goal. Conor Gallagher and Jarrod Bowen also netted their maiden England goals, while Taylor Harwood-Bellis headed in Jude Bellingham’s cross to complete the rout.
France also secured top spot in Group A2 with a 3-1 victory over Italy at the San Siro. Adrien Rabiot scored twice, including a brilliant header from a Lucas Digne set-piece. Italy’s Andrea Cambiaso pulled one back, but Rabiot’s second goal sealed the win for Les Bleus.
Erling Haaland continued his impressive form for Norway, scoring a hat-trick in their 5-0 win over Kazakhstan. The Manchester City star broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute and added two more goals before Antonio Nusa completed the scoring. Norway’s victory saw them finish top of Group B3 ahead of Austria, who were held to a 1-1 draw by Slovenia.
