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England secured their place at the 2026 World Cup with a decisive win over Latvia on the midweek fixture.

The Starting Lineup

• Jordan Pickford – Made a couple of fine saves in the second half to preserve his remarkable clean sheet record. It's now nine in a row. 6.5
• The defender – Has taken to international football with ease. Sterner tests are coming, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7
• John Stones – Two matches in a short span will do the Manchester City defender a lot of good. Remains one of the first names on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
• The centre-back – Picked ahead of Marc Guehi and was flawless. Made an excellent last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
• The young defender – Looked a little off the pace at times, understandable given his limited game time at Arsenal. An promising few months ahead. 6
• Newcastle's star – Appears irreplaceable in this England team at the moment. Seems made for this level and has struck up an productive partnership with Rice. 7
• Declan Rice – Thriving in his attacking role. The mainstay of England's midfield is demonstrating his offensive abilities now. Emerging as a real all-round midfielder. 7
• The attacker – Less influential as he has been in England's wins over previous opponents. The answer will come next month who is the leading candidate of the number 10 shirt. 6
• Bukayo Saka – Added an key pass to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's chances next summer. 7.5
• The captain – In the form of his life. Took his count for the season to 20 goals. Has scored 76 times for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
• Anthony Gordon – Clinical finish to get the ball rolling for England here in away. Has acquitted himself well during this international window. 7.5

The Bench Players

• The veteran (for Rice 60) – Kept play flowing in midfield. 6
• Eberechi Eze (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a threat. 7
• The winger (for Saka 60) – Has a fight on his hands to make the squad when everyone's fit. 6
• The defender (for Stones 71) – Predictably, handled everything with his height. 6
• Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left stood out. 6

With qualification confirmed, the team can now prepare for the World Cup with optimism.