Squad Assessments: England Book Their Place for 2026 World Cup

England clinched their berth at the 2026 World Cup with a comfortable victory over their opponents on Tuesday evening.

England's Starting XI

  • The goalkeeper – Pulled off a couple of fine stops in the latter period to extend his remarkable clean sheet record. That's nine straight in a row. 6.5
  • The full-back – Has adapted to international football like a duck to water. More challenging tests await, of course, but a promising start to his England career. 7
  • John Stones – Two games in five days will do the City defender a great benefit. Still one of the automatic picks on the roster, fitness permitting. 7
  • The centre-back – Chosen ahead of his competitor and was flawless. Made an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7
  • The young defender – Appeared a somewhat off the pace at times, expected given his lack of action at his club. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
  • The midfielder – Looks essential in this England team at the moment. Appears tailored for this level and has developed an strong partnership with Rice. 7
  • Arsenal's engine – Thriving in his number eight role. The pillar of England's midfield is demonstrating his creative abilities now. Becoming a true all-round midfielder. 7
  • The attacker – Quieter as he has been in England's successes over previous opponents. The answer will come next month who is the rightful holder of the number 10 shirt. 6
  • Bukayo Saka – Added an setup to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's prospects next summer. 7.5
  • The captain – At his peak. Boosted his tally for the season to 20 strikes. Has scored 76 goals for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
  • The forward – Precise finish to open the scoring for England here in Riga. Has acquitted himself well during this international window. 7.5

The Bench Players

  • Jordan Henderson (for Rice 60) – Kept play flowing in midfield. 6
  • Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a threat. 7
  • West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) – Has a fight on his hands to be selected when all are available. 6
  • The defender (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 confirmed, the squad can now prepare for the World Cup with optimism.

Kenneth Hayden
Kenneth Hayden

Lena is a tech enthusiast and software developer with a passion for gaming and digital innovation.