Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Secure a Spot for 2026 World Cup
England secured their berth at the 2026 World Cup with a decisive win over their opponents on Tuesday night.
The Starting Lineup
- The goalkeeper – Pulled off a few of excellent saves in the second half to preserve his impressive clean sheet streak. That's nine straight in a row. 6.5
- The full-back – Has taken to international football like a duck to water. Sterner tests are coming, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
- John Stones – A pair of fixtures in a short span will do the Manchester City defender a great benefit. Still one of the first names on the roster, fitness permitting. 7
- Ezri Konsa – Picked ahead of Marc Guehi and performed solidly. Made an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7
- The young defender – Appeared a slightly not at his best at times, expected given his lack of action at Arsenal. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
- The midfielder – Looks undroppable in this England team at the moment. Seems made for this level and has struck up an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
- Declan Rice – Thriving in his number eight role. The mainstay of England's midfield is demonstrating his attacking abilities now. Becoming a real all-round midfielder. 7
- The attacker – Not as impactful 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
- Bukayo Saka – Added an key pass to his superb goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
- Harry Kane – At his peak. Increased his count for the season to 20 scores. Has scored 76 times for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
- The forward – Sharp finish to get the ball rolling for England here in Riga. Has done a good job during this break. 7.5
England Substitutes
- The experienced midfielder (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6
- The playmaker (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a danger. 7
- Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to be selected when all are available. 6
- The defender (for Stones 71) – Typically, handled everything with his height. 6
- Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left was noticeable. 6
With their place secured, the team can now turn their attention for the upcoming tournament with confidence.
