Squad Ratings: England Qualify for 2026 World Cup

Gareth Southgate's side secured their berth at the 2026 World Cup with a convincing win over the Baltic side on Tuesday evening.

The Starting Lineup

  • Jordan Pickford – Made a few of excellent saves in the second half to maintain his impressive clean sheet run. It's now nine in a row. 6.5
  • The defender – Has taken to international football like a duck to water. Sterner tests await, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
  • Manchester City's centre-back – Two games in a short span will do the Manchester City defender a world of good. Remains one of the key players on the roster, fitness permitting. 7
  • The centre-back – Picked ahead of the other option and was flawless. Made an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7
  • Arsenal's talent – Appeared a little not at his best at times, expected given his lack of action at Arsenal. An interesting few months ahead. 6
  • Elliott Anderson – Seems undroppable in this England team at the moment. Seems tailored for this level and has formed an productive partnership with Rice. 7
  • Declan Rice – Excelling in his number eight role. The mainstay of England's midfield is demonstrating his creative abilities now. Emerging as a real all-round midfielder. 7
  • The attacker – Quieter as he has been in England's wins over Serbia and Wales. We should find out next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6
  • Arsenal's star – Added an setup to his superb goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be crucial to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
  • Harry Kane – At his peak. Boosted his count for the season to 20 strikes. Has scored 76 times for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
  • Newcastle's attacker – Sharp finish to start things off for England here in Riga. Has acquitted himself well during this break. 7.5

The Bench Players

  • The experienced midfielder (for Rice 60) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6
  • The playmaker (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a danger. 7
  • Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to earn a place when all are available. 6
  • The defender (for Stones 71) – As you'd expect, handled everything aerially. 6
  • Marcus Rashford (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left stood out. 6

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

Kristin Lopez
Kristin Lopez

A historian and writer passionate about uncovering the hidden stories of ancient dynasties and their influence on modern society.