Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Secure a Spot for the Upcoming Tournament
The national team secured their berth at the 2026 World Cup with a decisive victory over the Baltic side on Tuesday night.
The Starting Lineup
- England's number one β Made a few of fine saves in the second half to extend his impressive clean sheet streak. That's nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
- The full-back β Has taken to international football like a duck to water. Sterner tests are coming, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
- The defender β Two matches in less than a week will do the Manchester City defender a world of good. Remains one of the first names on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
- Ezri Konsa β Selected ahead of Marc Guehi and was flawless. Made an excellent last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
- The young defender β Looked a somewhat off the pace at times, expected given his limited game time at his club. An interesting few months ahead. 6
- The midfielder β Seems irreplaceable in this England team at the moment. Seems made for this level and has formed an strong partnership with Rice. 7
- Arsenal's engine β Thriving in his number eight role. The backbone of England's midfield is showing his creative abilities now. Becoming a genuine all-round midfielder. 7
- The forward β Not as impactful as he has been in England's successes over previous opponents. It will be revealed next month who is the leading candidate of the number 10 shirt. 6
- Bukayo Saka β Added an setup to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be key to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
- The striker β Playing brilliantly. Increased his tally for the season to 20 strikes. Has scored 76 goals for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
- The forward β Clinical finish to open the scoring for England here in Riga. Has done a good job during this fixture period. 7.5
Subs' Impact
- The experienced midfielder (for Rice 60) β Kept things moving in midfield. 6
- Eberechi Eze (for Rogers 60) β Excellently taken goal and a threat. 7
- The winger (for Saka 60) β Faces competition on his hands to make the squad when the squad is full. 6
- The defender (for Stones 71) β Predictably, dealt with everything in the air. 6
- Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) β One pacy run down the left caught the eye. 6
With their place booked, the squad can now prepare for next summer with optimism.