England 2-0 Andorra: Declan Rice’s header sends England one step closer to World Cup qualification | OneFootball

England were comfortable winners against Andorra at Villa Park on Saturday evening, winning the fixture 2-0.

Christian García’s own goal broke the deadlock for England, before Declan Rice’s second-half header sealed all three points.

As it happened

Andorra set up in a deep low block, providing an uphill task for England from the first whistle.

Gradually, Thomas Tuchel’s side managed to break down the Andorran defence, creating opportunities on goal through Arsenal duo Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke.

Eze was at the heart of the majority of England’s attacks. His strike looked destined for the bottom corner in the 22nd minute, but some fantastic defending from Max Llovera denied the number ten.

The Three Lions eventually opened the scoring when Christian García’s header deflected into his own net after a dangerous cross from Madueke.

Tuchel’s side were in firm control of the fixture with a heavy amount of possession against the visitors.

Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson seamlessly fitted into the England midfield with Declan Rice, as the pair worked together to deny any threat of Andorra advancing forward.

After the interval, the hosts continued to probe forward but failed to capitalise on two fantastic opportunities – Marcus Rashford initially fired wide of the target before Anderson’s scuffed shot failed to beat a scurrying Iker Álvarez, who palmed the effort away.

Rice eventually doubled England’s lead with a well-guided header in the 67th minute, which came from an inviting Reece James cross.

Overall, despite the differences between the sides, it was a professional performance from The Three Lions and Tuchel’s side will now turn their attention to Tuesday’s game away to Serbia.

The lineups