Player Assessments: England Secure a Spot for 2026 World Cup

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

First Eleven Performance

• England's number one – Pulled off a couple of good saves in the second half to maintain his remarkable clean sheet record. That's nine straight in a row. 6.5
• The defender – Has taken to international football like a duck to water. Tougher tests await, of course, but a promising start to his England career. 7
• Manchester City's centre-back – Two games in less than a week will do the Manchester City defender a great benefit. Still one of the first names on the starting lineup, fitness permitting. 7
• Aston Villa's defender – Selected ahead of the other option and didn't put a foot wrong. Executed an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
• The young defender – Looked a slightly off the pace at times, understandable given his scarce minutes at his club. An interesting few months ahead. 6
• Elliott Anderson – Seems essential in this England team at the moment. Appears suited to this level and has formed an productive partnership with Rice. 7
• Declan Rice – Thriving in his number eight role. The mainstay of England's midfield is demonstrating his creative abilities now. Developing into a real all-round midfielder. 7
• Morgan Rogers – Less influential 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
• The winger – Added an key pass to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's chances next summer. 7.5
• The captain – At his peak. Boosted his total for the season to 20 strikes. Has found the net 76 occasions for his country. Will he achieve 100? 8
• The forward – Clinical finish to open the scoring for England here in Riga. Has done a good job during this international window. 7.5

The Bench Players

• The experienced midfielder (for Rice 60) – Kept play flowing in midfield. 6
• The playmaker (for Rogers 60) – Excellently taken goal and a threat. 7
• Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Has a fight on his hands to make the squad when everyone's fit. 6
• The defender (for Stones 71) – Typically, handled everything with his height. 6
• Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – One pacy run down the left was noticeable. 6

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