England set up a last-16 clash against Senegal as they beat Wales 3-0 to secure top spot in Group B.
The Three Lions were always likely to reach the knockout stages heading into the final set of group-stage matches, the only question whether they would avoid a date with the Netherlands.
They did just that through a quickfire double after the break, Marcus Rashford breaking the deadlock before Phil Foden doubled the lead almost immediately to ensure there was to be no drama for Gareth Southgate’s side. Rashford fired in a second to cap off a brilliant display from the Manchester United forward, and make a strong case for his involvement against Senegal on Sunday.
As for Wales, it brought an end to a hugely disappointing World Cup, finishing bottom of the group with just a point. Gareth Bale scored their only goal of the tournament from the spot, against the USA, with their talisman replaced at half-time here.
England brought Rashford and Foden into the front three for the final group-stage match, while Wales shifted to a back four as they named a line-up that suggested more attacking ambition would be on show.
That was certainly not the case in the opening 45 minutes, Bale anonymous and Dan James’ only involvement a late challenge on John Stones that earned him a yellow card.
England were much the better side and should have taken the lead as Harry Kane played Marcus Rashford clean through on goal, but Danny Ward flew off his line and made a crucial save.
Phil Foden blazed over after a lovely flowing move from the Three Lions, while there was the occasional scare from set-pieces for Wales, though they held on to ensure it was goalless at the break.
Two goals in barely more than a minute ended Wales’ slim hopes of salvaging their World Cup campaign, and sent England well and truly on their way to top spot in Group B.
A run from Foden brought England a free-kick just outside the box, one that Rashford fired at Ward’s side but with enough power to still beat the goalkeeper as it flew into the back of the net.
Celebrations hadn’t died down by the time the ball was in the net again, Foden wheeling away as he marked his first start of the World Cup with a goal. Kane played a brilliant low ball across the face of goal, and the Manchester City star was there at the back post for a simple finish.
A Wales comeback never looked likely and it was England who capped the win with a third. Rashford ran onto a ball over the top, cut inside onto his left foot and drilled a low strike that went through Ward, the Wales goalkeeper again likely keen to avoid the replays.
