England return to Wembley on Thursday night to face Serbia in their penultimate UEFA 2026 World Cup Qualifier. The Three Lions have already sealed their place at next summer’s finals, but Thomas Tuchel has urged his players to maintain focus and finish the campaign in style. England have scored 18 goals without reply in six qualifying games, showcasing Tuchel’s control and tactical balance.
Tuchel, who reflected on England’s perfect World Cup qualifying run, as reported by SoftFootball, praised his players for their professionalism and unity, stressing that the goal now is to keep the energy and build momentum before the World Cup. Serbia, meanwhile, are fighting to stay alive in the group after a difficult campaign that led to the resignation of Dragan Stojković. New coach Veljko Paunović knows defeat could end their qualifying hopes.
Team News
Tuchel will be without Marc Guéhi, who is managing a bruised ankle. Newcastle duo Nick Pope and Anthony Gordon have also withdrawn due to injuries, with Manchester City’s James Trafford and Chelsea’s Trevoh Chalobah called up as replacements, according to SoftFootball. Ezri Konsa is expected to partner John Stones in defence, while Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden return to boost creativity in attack.
Serbia will miss star striker Aleksandar Mitrović, who has been sidelined with injury. In his absence, Dušan Vlahović will lead the line, supported by Sergej Milinković-Savić and Filip Kostić. Paunović may opt for a more defensive setup to contain England’s high press.
Possible Lineups
England (4-2-3-1): Pickford; James, Konsa, Stones, Burn; Anderson, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Rashford; Kane.
Serbia (3-5-2): Petrović; Veljković, Milenković, Pavlović; Zivković, Lukić, Gudelj, Samardzić, Kostić; Jović, Vlahović.
A live preview session with England footballer Ezri Konsa and manager Thomas Tuchel at Tottenham Hotspur’s training ground was shared on England’s official X account.
Watch the video below:
SoftFootball’s Prediction
England’s perfect record and home advantage make them clear favourites. With Kane, Bellingham, and Saka in top form, Tuchel’s side should continue their dominant run.
Prediction: England 3–0 Serbia
