(VIDEO) Malta's absurd defensive error that allowed England to score the opener

The English national team began Friday's match against Malta at Wembley Stadium with the calm of knowing that they have already secured their place at Euro 2024 and that all they need to take the top spot in the Group C standings is a draw. And they have two chances to get it: against Malta or next Monday against Macedonia.

But all indications are that they won't need to wait those three days. Coach Gareth Southgate decided to include all the stars in the starting lineup for this match and say goodbye to their home fans in 2023 with a victory.

And quickly The Three Lions managed to score the opener: 8 minutes into the first half, Phil Foden dribbled past an opposing defender inside the box and sent a drilled cross looking for Harry Kane, but Enrico Pepe managed to intercept the pass. The Maltese defender was unlucky, however, as the ball deflected off his foot and into the goal, making it impossible for goalkeeper Henry Bonello to save.

The early lead allowed the English to control the ball calmly, forcing their opponents to make more of an effort to try and win it back. But Gareth Southgate's team seemed satisfied with 1-0, as they showed no ambition to keep attacking and score the second goal. That's why the first half ended without too many dangerous situations.

What will the coach do?

During the break Gareth Southgate will have to decide what is the most convenient: whether to leave all the stars on the field so that the fans can enjoy with them for the last time this year, or to make changes to give rest to some of them, considering that in just three days they will travel to Macedonia. The substitutes are Sam Johnstone, Aaron Ramsdale, Rico Lewis, Ezri Konsa, Kyle Walker, Jack Grealish, Kalvin Phillips, Declan Rice, Cole Palmer, Bukayo Saka, Ollie Watkins and Jarrod Bowen.