Player Evaluations: England Book Their Place for 2026 World Cup

England earned their spot at the global tournament with a convincing victory over Latvia on Tuesday night.

First Eleven Performance

  • Jordan Pickford – Made a few of fine stops in the second half to extend his impressive clean sheet record. It's now nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
  • The defender – Has adapted to international football seamlessly. Tougher tests are coming, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
  • The defender – Two matches in a short span will do the Manchester City defender a great benefit. Still one of the key players on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
  • Ezri Konsa – Selected ahead of Marc Guehi and was flawless. Executed an superb last-ditch recovery tackle in the later stages to boot. 7
  • The young defender – Appeared a little ring rusty at times, understandable given his scarce minutes at his club. An promising few months ahead. 6
  • Newcastle's star – Looks essential in this England team at the moment. Appears suited to this level and has struck up an productive partnership with Rice. 7
  • Arsenal's engine – Thriving in his attacking role. The backbone of England's midfield is showing his offensive abilities now. Becoming a genuine all-round midfielder. 7
  • The forward – Quieter as he has been in England's victories over other teams. The answer will come next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6
  • The winger – Contributed an assist to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be key to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
  • Harry Kane – Playing brilliantly. Increased his tally for the season to 20 goals. Has hit the back of the net 76 times for his country. Will he achieve 100? 8
  • Anthony Gordon – Sharp finish to open the scoring for England here in the Latvian capital. Has done a good job during this break. 7.5

Subs' Impact

  • Jordan Henderson (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6
  • Eberechi Eze (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a threat. 7
  • The winger (for Saka 60) – Has a fight on his hands to make the squad when all are available. 6
  • Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – As you'd expect, handled everything aerially. 6
  • Marcus Rashford (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left was noticeable. 6

With their place booked, the team can now turn their attention for the upcoming tournament with high hopes.

Jamie Willis
Jamie Willis

A passionate gamer and tech enthusiast with over a decade of experience in reviewing games and sharing strategies to help players level up.