Squad Ratings: England Qualify for the Upcoming Tournament
The national team clinched their berth at the 2026 World Cup with a convincing victory over the Baltic side on the midweek fixture.
England's Starting XI
- Jordan Pickford โ Made a few of fine saves in the second half to maintain his impressive clean sheet run. That's nine in a row. 6.5
- Djed Spence โ Has taken to international football seamlessly. Sterner tests lie ahead, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7
- The defender โ Two matches in a short span will do the Manchester City defender a world of good. Still one of the first names on the starting lineup, fitness permitting. 7
- Aston Villa's defender โ Picked ahead of his competitor and performed solidly. Made an excellent last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7
- The young defender โ Looked a little not at his best at times, expected given his lack of action at his club. An promising few months ahead. 6
- Newcastle's star โ Looks irreplaceable in this England team at the moment. Looks suited to this level and has formed an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
- Declan Rice โ Enjoying his attacking role. The pillar of England's midfield is showing his offensive abilities now. Becoming a true all-round midfielder. 7
- The forward โ Quieter as he has been in England's wins over previous opponents. It will be revealed next month who is the leading candidate of the number 10 shirt. 6
- Bukayo Saka โ Provided an key pass to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be key to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
- The striker โ Playing brilliantly. Increased his count for the season to 20 strikes. Has hit the back of the net 76 times for his country. Will he achieve 100? 8
- Anthony Gordon โ Clinical finish to open the scoring for England here in Riga. Has performed admirably during this international window. 7.5
Subs' Impact
- The experienced midfielder (for Rice 60) โ Kept play flowing in midfield. 6
- Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) โ Superbly finished goal and a danger. 7
- West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) โ Has a fight on his hands to make the squad when all are available. 6
- Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) โ As you'd expect, dealt with everything aerially. 6
- Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) โ A quick burst down the left stood out. 6
After a World Cup spot confirmed, the team can now focus for next summer with optimism.