Player Assessments: England Qualify for the Upcoming Tournament
Gareth Southgate's side clinched their berth at the 2026 World Cup with a comfortable victory over their opponents on Tuesday evening.
The Starting Lineup
- England's number one – Made a couple of good saves in the second half to preserve his impressive clean sheet streak. It's now nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
- The defender – Seems at home in international football seamlessly. Tougher tests lie ahead, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7
- John Stones – Two games in five days will do the Manchester City defender a great benefit. Still one of the key players on the starting lineup, fitness permitting. 7
- The centre-back – Picked ahead of Marc Guehi and was flawless. Executed an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the later stages to boot. 7
- The young defender – Looked a little ring rusty at times, expected given his scarce minutes at his club. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
- Newcastle's star – Seems essential in this England team at the moment. Appears suited to this level and has formed an strong partnership with Rice. 7
- The midfielder – Enjoying his attacking role. The backbone of England's midfield is demonstrating his creative abilities now. Becoming a genuine all-round midfielder. 7
- The attacker – Less influential as he has been in England's wins over Serbia and Wales. The answer will come next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6
- Arsenal's star – Contributed an setup to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's prospects next summer. 7.5
- The striker – In the form of his life. Boosted his tally for the season to 20 scores. Has found the net 76 goals for his country. Will he achieve 100? 8
- Newcastle's attacker – Clinical finish to start things off for England here in the Latvian capital. Has performed admirably during this fixture period. 7.5
Subs' Impact
- The experienced midfielder (for Rice 60) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6
- Eberechi Eze (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a danger. 7
- West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to make the squad when the squad is full. 6
- Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – Typically, dealt with everything aerially. 6
- Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – One pacy run down the left was noticeable. 6
After their place secured, the squad can now focus for the upcoming tournament with optimism.