Marcus Rashford reveals tragic meaning behind England goal celebration vs Wales

England striker Marcus Rashford has revealed his celebration after his first goal against Wales was a dedication to a close friend who recently passed away following a battle with cancer.

Rashford pointed to sky, honouring his friend Garfield Hayward, after firing England ahead with a brilliant direct free-kick in the 3-0 win over Wales, which set up a World Cup last-16 clash against Senegal on Sunday.

The Manchester United forward added a second, and a third in Qatar, after Phil Foden had doubled England's lead from close range.

Asked afterwards about his celebration, Rashford said: "Unfortunately I lost one of my friends a couple of days ago.

“He's had quite a long battle with cancer so I'm pleased I managed to score for him He's always been a big supporter of mine, he was just a great person and I'm pleased he came into my life really."

Wales v England FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar | Group B Match | 29th November 2022

England eased into the knockouts as group winners having scored nine goals and conceded just two, and Rashford believes they are capable of being world champions.

“I think for me winning trophies has always been the happiest moment on the pitch for me," he said.

“I feel like the ambition in the squad is really good. We have a good mix of qualities. We have a really good squad and a squad that is definitely capable of challenging to win the tournament.

“I’m hoping that we can build on this type of performance, keep improving and keep scoring goals and showing our qualities.”

The result eliminated Wales, who finished bottom of Group B on one point.