Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Book Their Place for 2026 World Cup
England earned their berth at the 2026 World Cup with a decisive victory over the Baltic side on Tuesday evening.
First Eleven Performance
- Jordan Pickford – Made a couple of good saves in the latter period to extend his impressive clean sheet record. That's nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
- The full-back – Has taken to international football with ease. Sterner tests lie ahead, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
- The defender – Two matches in a short span will do the City defender a great benefit. Still one of the key players on the starting lineup, fitness permitting. 7
- Aston Villa's defender – Picked ahead of the other option and performed solidly. Executed an superb last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
- Arsenal's talent – Appeared a little not at his best at times, understandable given his limited game time at his club. An promising few months ahead. 6
- Newcastle's star – Seems essential in this England team at the moment. Looks made for this level and has formed an productive partnership with Rice. 7
- Arsenal's engine – Enjoying his attacking role. The mainstay of England's midfield is showing his attacking abilities now. Developing into a real all-round midfielder. 7
- The attacker – Quieter as he has been in England's victories over previous opponents. The answer will come next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6
- The winger – Contributed an key pass to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's chances next summer. 7.5
- The striker – At his peak. Increased his total for the season to 20 goals. Has hit the back of the net 76 times for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
- Anthony Gordon – Precise finish to start things off for England here in Riga. Has acquitted himself well during this break. 7.5
The Bench Players
- The veteran (for Rice 60) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6
- Eberechi Eze (for Rogers 60) – Excellently taken goal and a danger. 7
- The winger (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to make the squad when everyone's fit. 6
- Dan Burn (for Stones 71) – Predictably, managed everything in the air. 6
- Marcus Rashford (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left caught the eye. 6
With a World Cup spot secured, the team can now focus for the World Cup with optimism.