England U21s Thrash Serbia 9-1 in Uefa European Under-21 Championship Qualifying

Young Lions Run Riot in Nottingham

England's Under-21 team produced a stunning display to thrash Serbia 9-1 in their Uefa European Under-21 Championship Qualifying match at the City Ground on Thursday.

Chelsea forward Noni Madueke and debutant Jaden Philogene-Bidace both scored hat-tricks, while James McAtee netted twice and Harvey Elliott added another. It was England's first home game since winning the European Championships in the summer.

The Young Lions took the lead after just two minutes when Madueke fired home from close range. Philogene-Bidace doubled the lead ten minutes later with a fine finish from inside the area.

Serbia pulled a goal back through Armin Gigovic just before half-time, but England restored their two-goal advantage through McAtee's penalty early in the second half.

Madueke completed his hat-trick with a stunning solo effort on the hour mark, before Philogene-Bidace made it 6-1 with a fine header. Elliott then added a seventh with a curling effort from the edge of the area.

Madueke scored his fourth from the penalty spot late on, before Philogene-Bidace completed the scoring in the final minute. It was a dominant performance from England, who now top Group F with three wins from three games.

The Young Lions will now face Albania away in their next qualifying match on 16 November.