England enjoyed a perfect night on Friday as a fine performance gave them a 3-0 victory over Bulgaria and, coupled with Wales’ unexpected victory over Montenegro, Fabio Capello’s side now look well on course to qualify for Euro 2012 as Group G winners (England 1/33).
The manner in which the Three Lions disposed of Bulgaria will have thrilled Capello and fans alike with a ruthless attacking display making a mockery of pre-match fears that it was going to be a tricky evening for the men in black.
Ashley Young, Wayne Rooney, Stewart Downing and Theo Walcott all enjoyed themselves against an albeit poor Bulgaria defence as England tore their opponents to shreds at times in Sofia.
Rooney and Young picked up where they had left off for Manchester United so far this season, while the pace of Downing and Walcott, often swapping wings to outfox Bulgaria further, caused problems all evening.
Capello had sprung somewhat of a surprise leaving international stalwart Frank Lampard on the bench and going instead with Scott Parker and Gareth Barry in the centre of midfield. It was a decision that paid off, however, as the duo pulled the strings and dictated the game.
Add to this the positive impact Adam Johnson and James Milner had when they came on, too, and suddenly England had a young, hungry side looking every bit like one capable of going on to win Euro 2012 – should they qualify of course.
It’s tempting to say that appears a foregone conclusion now, but there still remains two difficult games to come in the group – starting with Wales at Wembley on Tuesday.
England should have too much for Gary Speed’s side, especially now Craig Bellamy and David Vaughan are suspended after being booked in their impressive win over Montenegro (10/1 to win Group G), and another victory over their local rivals will leave Capello’s men on the brink of qualification.
Then comes the final match in Montenegro, which will be a tough game. Although that’s what many were predicting before the Bulgaria showdown.
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