Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Book Their Place for the Next World Cup

Gareth Southgate's side secured their spot at the 2026 World Cup with a decisive win over the Baltic side on the midweek fixture.

The Starting Lineup

  • The goalkeeper – Made a couple of excellent stops in the latter period to preserve his remarkable clean sheet record. That's nine in a row. 6.5
  • The defender – Has adapted to international football seamlessly. Tougher tests await, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7
  • John Stones – A pair of fixtures in a short span will do the Manchester City defender a world of good. Remains one of the first names on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
  • Aston Villa's defender – Chosen ahead of Marc Guehi and didn't put a foot wrong. Executed an excellent last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7
  • Arsenal's talent – Appeared a slightly ring rusty at times, understandable given his lack of action at his club. An promising few months ahead. 6
  • Newcastle's star – Seems essential in this England team at the moment. Appears tailored for this level and has developed an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
  • Arsenal's engine – Enjoying his advanced midfield role. The pillar of England's midfield is displaying his attacking abilities now. Emerging as a genuine all-round midfielder. 7
  • The attacker – Not as impactful as he has been in England's successes over previous opponents. We should find out next month who is the leading candidate of the number 10 shirt. 6
  • The winger – Contributed an key pass to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be crucial to England's chances next summer. 7.5
  • The captain – Playing brilliantly. Boosted his count for the season to 20 scores. Has scored 76 goals for his country. Will he achieve 100? 8
  • Newcastle's attacker – Precise finish to start things off for England here in Riga. Has done a good job during this international window. 7.5

Subs' Impact

  • Jordan Henderson (for Rice 60) – Kept play flowing in midfield. 6
  • Eberechi Eze (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a menace. 7
  • The winger (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to make the squad when everyone's fit. 6
  • Dan Burn (for Stones 71) – Typically, dealt with everything aerially. 6
  • Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left caught the eye. 6

After a World Cup spot confirmed, England can now turn their attention for the upcoming tournament with high hopes.

Brittney Church
Brittney Church

Elara Vance is a seasoned political analyst with a focus on UK affairs, providing sharp commentary and data-driven insights.