Player Ratings: The Three Lions Secure a Spot for the Next World Cup

The national team clinched their berth at the 2026 World Cup with a comfortable win over their opponents on Tuesday night.

England's Starting XI

  • Jordan Pickford – Made a few of fine saves in the second half to preserve his impressive clean sheet record. That's nine straight in a row. 6.5
  • The full-back – Has adapted to international football with ease. Tougher tests await, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7
  • The defender – Two games in five days will do the Manchester City defender a lot of good. Still one of the first names on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
  • The centre-back – Selected ahead of the other option and was flawless. Executed an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
  • The young defender – Appeared a somewhat not at his best at times, expected given his limited game time at Arsenal. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
  • Newcastle's star – Looks irreplaceable in this England team at the moment. Looks tailored for this level and has formed an strong partnership with Rice. 7
  • Arsenal's engine – Thriving in his number eight role. The backbone of England's midfield is displaying his attacking abilities now. Becoming a real all-round midfielder. 7
  • The attacker – Quieter as he has been in England's successes over Serbia and Wales. It will be revealed next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6
  • Arsenal's star – Contributed an assist to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's prospects next summer. 7.5
  • Harry Kane – Playing brilliantly. Took his tally for the season to 20 scores. Has scored 76 goals for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
  • Anthony Gordon – Precise finish to start things off for England here in the Latvian capital. Has performed admirably during this break. 7.5

England Substitutes

  • The veteran (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6
  • The playmaker (for Rogers 60) – Excellently taken goal and a threat. 7
  • Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to be selected when all are available. 6
  • Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – Predictably, dealt with everything in the air. 6
  • Marcus Rashford (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left caught the eye. 6

After a World Cup spot booked, the team can now focus for next summer with high hopes.

Megan Wolfe
Megan Wolfe

Lena is a passionate writer and creative thinker who loves sharing her experiences and ideas to inspire others.