North Macedonia 1 England 1: Three Lions labour to controversial draw but secure top seed for Euro 2024

6 months ago 65

ENGLAND came from behind to finish their European qualification campaign undefeated.

Having already qualified for next summer’s Euro 2026, Gareth Southgate rang a number of changes for the trip to North Macedonia.

North Macedonia’s Enis Bardhi fired his side into the lead against the Three Lions[/caption]

Jordan Pickford saved his penalty before the forward slotted home the rebound[/caption]

England drew level when Harry Kane’s header deflected off Jani Atanasov and into the net[/caption]

But it took the introduction of captain Harry Kane from the bench to ensure they did not leave Eastern Europe red-faced.

North Macedonia were awarded a penalty shortly before the end of the first half.

Rico Lewis, despite having both eyes on the ball, caught Bojan Miovski with a flailing arm to the face while going for a header.

A penalty was awarded after a VAR check, but Jordan Pickford saved from Enis Bardhi – only for the forward to react quickest and slot home the rebound.

Jack Grealish had a goal disallowed for offside following a VAR check moments after the restart as it looked set to be a frustrating evening for Southgate’s men.

But Kane made an instant impact on 59 minutes as he got his head to Phil Foden’s corner with his first touch, and it bounced off Jani Atanasov and into the net.

The result was also enough to ensure that England are in Pot 1 for the draw for next summer’s showpiece.

Full report to follow…

FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS AND BONUSES NEW CUSTOMERS