Squad Ratings: The Three Lions Qualify for 2026 World Cup

The national team clinched their place at the 2026 World Cup with a comfortable triumph over their opponents on Tuesday evening.

England's Starting XI

  • Jordan Pickford – Made a few of excellent saves in the second half to preserve his remarkable clean sheet record. That's nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
  • The defender – Has adapted to international football seamlessly. More challenging tests lie ahead, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
  • Manchester City's centre-back – A pair of fixtures in five days will do the City defender a great benefit. Still one of the key players on the roster, fitness permitting. 7
  • The centre-back – Selected ahead of his competitor and performed solidly. Executed an excellent last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
  • The young defender – Looked a somewhat not at his best at times, understandable given his limited game time at Arsenal. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
  • Elliott Anderson – Appears undroppable 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 advanced midfield role. The mainstay of England's midfield is displaying his creative abilities now. Developing into a true all-round midfielder. 7
  • Morgan Rogers – Not as impactful as he has been in England's victories over other teams. The answer will come next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6
  • Bukayo Saka – Added an assist to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's chances next summer. 7.5
  • The striker – Playing brilliantly. Increased his count for the season to 20 goals. Has scored 76 times for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
  • The forward – Precise finish to get the ball rolling for England here in Riga. Has performed admirably during this break. 7.5

England Substitutes

  • The veteran (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) – Faces competition on his hands to make the squad when all are available. 6
  • The defender (for Stones 71) – Predictably, dealt with everything aerially. 6
  • Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – One pacy run down the left stood out. 6

With their place secured, the team can now focus for next summer with confidence.

Brian Rowe
Brian Rowe

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