Saka scores as England thrash Andorra 4-0
Birthday boy Bukayo Saka on Sunday scored as England beat Andorra 4-0.
It was their first match at Wembley since the Euro 2020 final and was a carnival atmosphere under the arch before kick-off.
This was as fans showed appreciation for an unforgettable summer, just 56 days from the agonising penalty-kicks loss to Italy.
Much-changed England responded with a comfortable if unspectacular victory against the side ranked 156th in the world.
Saka completed the scoring to bring a smile to Gareth Southgate’s face and millions across the nation.
While Jesse Lingard hit a brace and substitute Harry Kane moved onto 40 international goals, there was no more popular goalscorer than the winger.
The two goals were Lingard’s first international goals since November 2018.
Saka missed from the penalty kick spot against Italy, along with Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford, but he showed great character in an impressive performance as he returned to Wembley.
He assisted both of Lingard’s goals, but the Arsenal player also celebrated his 20th birthday with a headed effort.
They all helped England’s 100 per cent World Cup qualification record to continue with ease. Saka was given a raucous reception as an independently-funded banner supporting the trio was unfurled before kick-off.
“It’s the perfect birthday present for me, I’m really happy we got the win, and I could celebrate my birthday like this,” Saka later said. “I’m really happy with the reception everyone gave me. That meant a lot for me and made me want to give my all.”
Saka gave his shirt to a fan before heading down the tunnel at full-time, and Southgate hopes it can close the recent chapter of the player’s career.
(dpa/NAN)
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