The international break in the football calendar was headlined by big wins for England and France as Euro 2024 qualifying action got underway.
Newly appointed France captain Kylian Mbappe scored a brace and registered an assist in a 4-0 win over the Netherlands on Friday.
Antoine Griezmann, who many believed was a close contender to succeed Hugo Lloris as the French captain, opened the scoring for the World Cup runners up after being set up by Mbappe.
Dayotchanculle Upamecano made it two before the PSG star led from the front to make it three and then four. Memphis Depay missed a penalty late on for the Netherlands and it ended in a resounding defeat for Ronald Koeman’s side.
The action all began on Thursday, though, with England picking up their first away win against European champions Italy in over 60 years.
Declan Rice opened the scoring before Harry Kane scored a landmark 54th international goal, making him England’s all time record goalscorer ahead of Wayne Rooney.
Mateo Retegui pulled one back for the hosts but it was too little too late, with Gareth Southgate’s side claiming an important three points to start their qualifying campaign on a front foot.
On Saturday, Spain beat Norway 3-0 courtesy of two goals from Joselu and an Daniel Olmo strike. The visitors were without Manchester City striker Erling Haaland who missed out due to injury as the Spaniards dominated proceedings.
Elsewhere, Croatia and Wales played out a 1-1 draw while Turkey and Switzerland picked up wins over Armenia and Belarus.
On Sunday, England face Ukraine while Luxembourg host Portugal and Italy travel to Malta.
Pictured above: Kylian Mbappe
Image source: @fabrizioromano
