Player Ratings: The Three Lions Secure a Spot for the Upcoming Tournament

Gareth Southgate's side secured their place at the 2026 World Cup with a decisive victory over Latvia on Tuesday evening.

First Eleven Performance

• Jordan Pickford – Pulled off a few of good stops in the latter period to preserve his impressive clean sheet streak. It's now nine straight in a row. 6.5
• The full-back – Has taken to international football like a duck to water. Sterner tests lie ahead, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7
• John Stones – Two matches in five days will do the City defender a great benefit. Remains one of the automatic picks on the roster, fitness permitting. 7
• Aston Villa's defender – Selected ahead of his competitor and didn't put a foot wrong. Executed an excellent last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
• The young defender – Appeared a little off the pace at times, expected given his limited game time at Arsenal. An promising few months ahead. 6
• Newcastle's star – Seems irreplaceable in this England team at the moment. Appears tailored for this level and has developed an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
• Arsenal's engine – Excelling in his advanced midfield role. The pillar of England's midfield is displaying his creative abilities now. Developing into a genuine all-round midfielder. 7
• Morgan Rogers – Not as impactful as he has been in England's successes over previous opponents. We should find out next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6
• Bukayo Saka – Added an assist to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be crucial to England's chances next summer. 7.5
• The captain – Playing brilliantly. Increased his total for the season to 20 strikes. Has hit the back of the net 76 goals for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
• Anthony Gordon – Sharp finish to open the scoring for England here in the Latvian capital. Has done a good job during this international window. 7.5

England Substitutes

• The veteran (for Rice 60) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6
• Eberechi Eze (for Rogers 60) – Well-executed goal and a threat. 7
• Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to earn a place when everyone's fit. 6
• The defender (for Stones 71) – Typically, dealt with everything in the air. 6
• Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – One pacy run down the left stood out. 6

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