Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Secure a Spot for the Next World Cup
England secured their berth at the 2026 World Cup with a comfortable triumph over their opponents on the midweek fixture.
The Starting Lineup
- England's number one – Pulled off a couple of good saves in the latter period to extend his impressive clean sheet record. That's nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
- The full-back – Has taken to international football seamlessly. Tougher tests await, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7
- John Stones – Two matches in a short span will do the City defender a world of good. Remains one of the key players on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
- Aston Villa's defender – Chosen ahead of the other option and was flawless. Executed an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
- Myles Lewis-Skelly – Appeared a little ring rusty at times, understandable given his lack of action at Arsenal. An interesting few months ahead. 6
- Elliott Anderson – Seems irreplaceable in this England team at the moment. Appears made for this level and has formed an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
- The midfielder – Thriving in his advanced midfield role. The pillar of England's midfield is displaying his offensive abilities now. Developing into a true all-round midfielder. 7
- The forward – Quieter as he has been in England's successes over other teams. We should find out next month who is the rightful holder of the number 10 shirt. 6
- Arsenal's star – Contributed an key pass to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be crucial to England's prospects next summer. 7.5
- The striker – At his peak. Boosted his count for the season to 20 scores. Has hit the back of the net 76 times for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
- Newcastle's attacker – Precise finish to get the ball rolling for England here in Riga. Has done a good job during this break. 7.5
Subs' Impact
- The experienced midfielder (for Rice 60) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6
- Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a menace. 7
- Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Has a fight on his hands to make the squad when everyone's fit. 6
- Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – Predictably, dealt with everything with his height. 6
- Marcus Rashford (for Gordon 71) – One pacy run down the left stood out. 6
With a World Cup spot secured, England can now prepare for the upcoming tournament with optimism.