Player Ratings: England Book Their Place for the Next World Cup

The national team earned their place at the 2026 World Cup with a convincing victory over their opponents on Tuesday night.

The Starting Lineup

  • The goalkeeper – Pulled off a couple of good saves in the latter period to preserve his remarkable clean sheet run. That's nine in a row. 6.5
  • The full-back – Has taken to international football seamlessly. Tougher tests lie ahead, of course, but a promising start to his England career. 7
  • John Stones – A pair of fixtures in five days will do the City defender a world of good. Still one of the key players on the starting lineup, fitness permitting. 7
  • The centre-back – Selected ahead of Marc Guehi and was flawless. Executed an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the later stages to boot. 7
  • Myles Lewis-Skelly – Looked a somewhat not at his best at times, expected given his limited game time at his club. An interesting few months ahead. 6
  • Newcastle's star – Appears essential in this England team at the moment. Looks made for this level and has formed an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
  • The midfielder – Enjoying his advanced midfield role. The backbone of England's midfield is displaying his creative abilities now. Developing into a genuine all-round midfielder. 7
  • Morgan Rogers – Quieter as he has been in England's victories over previous opponents. It will be revealed next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6
  • The winger – Provided an assist to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be key to England's prospects next summer. 7.5
  • The striker – In the form of his life. Increased his total for the season to 20 strikes. Has scored 76 goals for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
  • The forward – Sharp finish to start things off for England here in the Latvian capital. Has done a good job during this international window. 7.5

Subs' Impact

  • Jordan Henderson (for Rice 60) – Kept play flowing in midfield. 6
  • Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Excellently taken goal and a threat. 7
  • West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to be selected when all are available. 6
  • Dan Burn (for Stones 71) – Typically, handled everything aerially. 6
  • Marcus Rashford (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left was noticeable. 6

With a World Cup spot secured, the squad can now prepare for next summer with high hopes.

Roger Davis
Roger Davis

Elara is a seasoned media critic with over a decade of experience covering film festivals and industry developments across Europe.