🔗 Share this article

England earned their berth at the 2026 World Cup with a comfortable victory over Latvia on the midweek fixture.

First Eleven Performance

• The goalkeeper – Pulled off a couple of fine stops in the latter period to maintain his remarkable clean sheet record. That's nine in a row. 6.5
• The full-back – Has adapted to international football like a duck to water. More challenging tests lie ahead, of course, but a promising start to his England career. 7
• John Stones – Two matches in less than a week will do the Manchester City defender a great benefit. Remains one of the key players on the roster, fitness permitting. 7
• Ezri Konsa – Chosen ahead of the other option and performed solidly. Executed an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the later stages to boot. 7
• The young defender – Looked a little not at his best at times, understandable given his limited game time at Arsenal. An promising few months ahead. 6
• Elliott Anderson – Appears essential in this England team at the moment. Seems made for this level and has struck up an strong partnership with Rice. 7
• The midfielder – Enjoying his advanced midfield role. The pillar of England's midfield is showing his offensive abilities now. Developing into a true all-round midfielder. 7
• The forward – Not as impactful as he has been in England's victories over Serbia and Wales. The answer will come next month who is the rightful holder of the number 10 shirt. 6
• Arsenal's star – Provided an key pass to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be crucial to England's chances next summer. 7.5
• The striker – In the form of his life. Boosted his count for the season to 20 strikes. Has hit the back of the net 76 goals for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
• The forward – Sharp finish to open the scoring for England here in away. Has done a good job during this break. 7.5

The Bench Players

• Jordan Henderson (for Rice 60) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6
• Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Excellently taken goal and a threat. 7
• West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) – Has a fight on his hands to earn a place when all are available. 6
• Dan Burn (for Stones 71) – Predictably, managed everything with his height. 6
• The forward (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left caught the eye. 6

With a World Cup spot secured, the team can now focus for the upcoming tournament with optimism.