Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Qualify for 2026 World Cup
England secured their spot at the next World Cup with a comfortable victory over their opponents on Tuesday evening.
England's Starting XI
- England's number one – Pulled off a few of excellent stops in the second half to extend his remarkable clean sheet run. That's nine straight in a row. 6.5
- The defender – Has taken to international football seamlessly. Sterner tests lie ahead, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
- Manchester City's centre-back – A pair of fixtures in less than a week will do the Manchester City defender a great benefit. Still one of the key players on the starting lineup, fitness permitting. 7
- Ezri Konsa – Picked ahead of the other option and was flawless. Executed an superb last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7
- Arsenal's talent – Appeared a somewhat off the pace at times, understandable given his scarce minutes at Arsenal. An promising few months ahead. 6
- Newcastle's star – Appears irreplaceable in this England team at the moment. Appears tailored for this level and has struck up an productive partnership with Rice. 7
- Declan Rice – Excelling in his advanced midfield role. The backbone of England's midfield is displaying his attacking abilities now. Emerging as a genuine all-round midfielder. 7
- The attacker – Not as impactful 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 – Provided an setup to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be crucial to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
- Harry Kane – In the form of his life. Increased his tally for the season to 20 scores. Has scored 76 occasions for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
- Newcastle's attacker – Clinical finish to open the scoring for England here in away. Has done a good job during this international window. 7.5
England Substitutes
- The veteran (for Rice 60) – Kept play flowing in midfield. 6
- Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a threat. 7
- Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to earn a place when the squad is full. 6
- Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – Typically, dealt with everything in the air. 6
- The forward (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left was noticeable. 6
After their place secured, the team can now prepare for next summer with confidence.