Squad Assessments: England Secure a Spot for the Next World Cup

England secured their berth at the 2026 World Cup with a convincing win over the Baltic side on Tuesday night.

England's Starting XI

  • England's number one – Pulled off a couple of fine saves in the second half to extend his impressive clean sheet run. That's nine straight in a row. 6.5
  • Djed Spence – Has adapted to international football with ease. Tougher tests are coming, 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 world of good. Still one of the first names on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
  • Aston Villa's defender – Chosen ahead of Marc Guehi and didn't put a foot wrong. Executed an excellent last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7
  • Arsenal's talent – Looked a little not at his best at times, expected given his scarce minutes at Arsenal. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
  • The midfielder – Appears undroppable in this England team at the moment. Seems suited to this level and has developed an strong partnership with Rice. 7
  • Arsenal's engine – Excelling in his attacking role. The backbone of England's midfield is displaying his attacking abilities now. Developing into a true all-round midfielder. 7
  • The attacker – Quieter as he has been in England's wins over previous opponents. It will be revealed next month who is the rightful holder of the number 10 shirt. 6
  • Arsenal's star – Added an setup to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be key to England's chances next summer. 7.5
  • Harry Kane – In the form of his life. Increased his tally for the season to 20 goals. Has scored 76 times for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
  • Newcastle's attacker – Precise finish to start things off for England here in away. Has done a good job during this fixture period. 7.5

The Bench Players

  • The veteran (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6
  • Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a menace. 7
  • West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) – Has a fight on his hands to make the squad when the squad is full. 6
  • Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – As you'd expect, handled everything aerially. 6
  • The forward (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left stood out. 6

After a World Cup spot confirmed, the team can now turn their attention for the upcoming tournament with confidence.

Carolyn Saunders
Carolyn Saunders

A tech historian and cybersecurity expert passionate about preserving and securing vintage computing systems.