England did not get off to a good start tonight but they ultimately secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Senegal to reach the quarter-finals of the Qatar 2022 World Cup, where they will face France.
Jordan Henderson, Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka scored to steer the Three Lions past the African champions at the Al Bayt Stadium.
England survived a nervy start and relied on goalkeeper Jordan Pickford to keep out Boulaye Dia with a superb save as Senegal created the early openings.
Gareth Southgate’s side grew into the game and went ahead in the 38th minute as the outstanding Jude Bellingham set up Jordan Henderson for a simple finish.
Borussia Dortmund midfielder Bellingham was involved in the second goal in first half added time, combining with Phil Foden on the breakaway as Harry Kane lashed home his first goal of the tournament.
The strike left Kane just one behind Wayne Rooney’s all-time record of 53 England goals and he could equal or surpass the record before the end of the tournament if England keep progressing.
Foden was also involved as England wrapped the game up in the 57th minute, crossing for Saka to flick a delicate finish past Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.
Senegal would be disappointed with the result and their performance, but they will take consolation in a successful year that saw them win their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title.
England’s next battle is against defending champions France on Saturday for a place in the semi-finals.
