England faces a potentially tough test against Serbia in Belgrade on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, as they aim for their fifth consecutive win in World Cup qualifying. The Three Lions are currently at the top of Group K with 12 points, while Serbia sits in second place with seven points, having played one game less. A victory for England would significantly boost their chances of securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup in North America.
Match Details
The match will be held at the Stadion Rajko Mitić in Belgrade, Serbia. Kick-off is scheduled for 7.45 p.m. BST/2.45 p.m. ET. Clément Turpin (FRA) will be the referee, and Willy Delajod (FRA) will be the VAR.
How to Watch
In the United Kingdom, the match will be broadcast live on ITV1 and ITVX, as well as STV Scotland. In the United States, ViX will stream the match in Spanish. Sky Sports will broadcast the game in Mexico. DAZN and Amazon Prime Video will broadcast the match in Canada.
Team News
Serbia has not reported any new injury concerns. Aleksandar Mitrovic may return to the starting lineup. Nemanja Gudelj and Nemanja Maksimovic may also be recalled.
England will likely field a similar lineup to the one against Andorra. However, Miles Lewis-Skelly has been left out of the squad. Marc Guehi is reportedly fit for the clash. Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, and Cole Palmer are sidelined with injuries. Adam Wharton and John Stones withdrew from the squad prior to the Andorra game.
Form and Expectations
England secured a 2-0 win over Andorra in their previous World Cup qualifier. However, the performance was not particularly inspiring. Serbia defeated Latvia 1-0 in their last match.
Serbia is unbeaten in their last seven games. They are a strong team at home. England has struggled to convert chances in recent matches. Thomas Tuchel has spoken about bringing "old-school footballing qualities back into the side". This includes long throws and crosses.
Possible Lineups
FA appeals to Serbian fans
The Football Association of Serbia (FSS) has appealed to its supporters to avoid any behavior that could lead to further sanctions from FIFA. FIFA fined the FSS almost £50,000 in June for "discrimination and racist abuse". 8,100 fewer Serbian fans will be allowed inside the Rajko Mitic Stadium for the match, after FIFA imposed a reduction in the capacity by 15% as further punishment for the behaviour of supporters during their game against Andorra in June.
Predictions
Serbia is expected to provide a stern test for England. The intimidating atmosphere at the Rajko Mitic Stadium will make it difficult for the Three Lions. A draw may be the most realistic outcome.
