A fast start gave England control
Nicoll-Jazuli opened the scoring after six minutes, finishing with his left foot after Oscar Johnson played him through. England doubled the lead when Parker controlled a lofted pass, turned inside the penalty area and placed his shot beyond the goalkeeper. Both goals came from clear forward movement rather than hopeful deliveries.
The early advantage allowed the Young Lions to keep the ball without forcing every attack. Montenegro had to step higher, which opened space behind the first defensive line. England used that space by changing the pace of possession and attacking only after the next runner had moved into a useful position.
Nicoll-Jazuli completed his hat-trick after the interval
The match was played on 11 November. Samuel O’Brien created the third goal with a cut-back, and Nicoll-Jazuli curled the finish into the top corner. Montenegro replied through Danilo Vukčević shortly before half-time, giving England a reminder that their control still required concentration.
Five minutes after the restart, Nicoll-Jazuli received a weighted pass from Darren Motsi and lifted the ball over Damjan Janković to complete his hat-trick. The goal came from timing: the pass arrived before the defence could drop, while the finish used the goalkeeper’s forward position.
The substitutes maintained the attacking level
Joshua Abe scored shortly after entering the match, using a composed chip rather than striking with unnecessary power. Parker then completed his brace when Emmanuel Fejokwu headed the ball across goal. England’s bench therefore added energy without changing the structure that had created the earlier chances.
That continuity matters in a short qualifying group. Coaches need replacements who understand the same pressing distances and attacking roles. England were able to rest players after building the lead while still keeping Montenegro under pressure and preventing the match from becoming disorganised.
Poland will provide a different test
England face Poland on 14 November before meeting Ukraine three days later. The top two teams progress to the next qualifying round. Goal difference may become important, but the staff will also look at the moment before Montenegro’s goal and the few situations in which England’s midfield became stretched.
A six-goal opening is a strong platform, not a completed campaign. Poland are likely to defend with a different height and could offer less space behind their line. England must keep the same patience, recognise when a direct pass is available and protect the centre whenever several players join the attack.