Squad Evaluations: England Qualify for the Next World Cup
Gareth Southgate's side earned their berth at the 2026 World Cup with a comfortable victory over their opponents on the midweek fixture.
England's Starting XI
- England's number one – Made a few of good saves in the second half to maintain his impressive clean sheet run. That's nine in a row. 6.5
- The full-back – Has taken to international football seamlessly. Sterner tests await, of course, but a promising start to his England career. 7
- The defender – Two games in five days will do the Manchester City defender a lot of good. Remains one of the first names on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
- Ezri Konsa – Chosen ahead of Marc Guehi and was flawless. Made an excellent last-ditch recovery tackle in the later stages to boot. 7
- Arsenal's talent – Appeared a slightly not at his best at times, expected given his lack of action at his club. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
- The midfielder – Looks undroppable in this England team at the moment. Appears suited to this level and has struck up an strong partnership with Rice. 7
- The midfielder – Enjoying his number eight role. The mainstay of England's midfield is displaying his attacking abilities now. Becoming a real all-round midfielder. 7
- The attacker – Less influential as he has been in England's victories over other teams. The answer will come next month who is the rightful holder of the number 10 shirt. 6
- Bukayo Saka – Contributed an setup to his superb goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be crucial to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
- The captain – At his peak. Increased his tally for the season to 20 scores. Has found the net 76 goals for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
- The forward – Precise finish to start things off for England here in the Latvian capital. Has performed admirably during this break. 7.5
England Substitutes
- Jordan Henderson (for Rice 60) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6
- The playmaker (for Rogers 60) – Well-executed goal and a danger. 7
- West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to be selected when the squad is full. 6
- The defender (for Stones 71) – Predictably, handled everything aerially. 6
- The forward (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left stood out. 6
With qualification confirmed, the team can now prepare for the World Cup with confidence.