Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Secure a Spot for 2026 World Cup
England earned their place at the 2026 World Cup with a convincing triumph over Latvia on Tuesday night.
The Starting Lineup
- Jordan Pickford – Made a couple of excellent stops in the latter period to preserve his impressive clean sheet streak. That's nine in a row. 6.5
- The defender – Has adapted to international football seamlessly. Tougher tests await, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
- John Stones – Two games in five days will do the City defender a great benefit. Still one of the first names on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
- The centre-back – Selected ahead of his competitor and didn't put a foot wrong. Executed an superb last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
- The young defender – Looked a slightly ring rusty at times, understandable given his limited game time at Arsenal. An promising few months ahead. 6
- The midfielder – Looks essential in this England team at the moment. Looks suited to this level and has struck up an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
- The midfielder – Enjoying his number eight role. The backbone of England's midfield is showing his creative abilities now. Becoming a real all-round midfielder. 7
- The attacker – Quieter as he has been in England's victories over other teams. We should find out next month who is the leading candidate of the number 10 shirt. 6
- The winger – Contributed an assist to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be crucial to England's chances next summer. 7.5
- The captain – At his peak. Increased his tally for the season to 20 scores. Has hit the back of the net 76 times for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
- The forward – Precise finish to open the scoring for England here in Riga. Has done a good job during this fixture period. 7.5
Subs' Impact
- The veteran (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6
- Eberechi Eze (for Rogers 60) – Excellently taken goal and a threat. 7
- West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to make the squad when all are available. 6
- Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – Predictably, handled everything aerially. 6
- Marcus Rashford (for Gordon 71) – One pacy run down the left caught the eye. 6
After a World Cup spot confirmed, England can now prepare for next summer with high hopes.
