Harry Kane netted his 69th international goal, igniting a flurry of scoring in the second half that propelled England to the top division of the UEFA Nations League on Sunday.
In what was the last match under interim head coach Lee Carsley, England secured a commanding 5-0 victory over Ireland, ensuring their spot among Europe’s elite in the upcoming iteration of the tournament.
England topped their group based on goal difference, finishing just ahead of Greece, who claimed a 2-0 victory over Finland.
Kane’s goal, a penalty converted in the 53rd minute at Wembley Stadium, further extended his record for the national team.
The spot-kick was awarded after Jude Bellingham was fouled by Liam Scales, who was subsequently shown a red card for receiving a second yellow.
England quickly built on their advantage, with Anthony Gordon scoring in the 55th minute and Conor Gallagher adding another just three minutes later.
Substitute Jarrod Bowen made his presence felt immediately, finding the net with his first touch in the 75th minute, followed by a header from Taylor Harwood-Bellis, who marked his debut with a goal four minutes thereafter.
With new head coach Thomas Tuchel set to take the helm in January, England sought to match Greece’s performance to clinch the top spot in Group B2.
Anastasios Bakasetas provided Greece with an early lead against Finland in the 52nd minute, just moments before Kane’s decisive penalty.
Christos Tzolis later scored Greece’s second goal, further intensifying the competition.
