Squad Ratings: England Qualify for 2026 World Cup

England secured their place at the 2026 World Cup with a convincing triumph over their opponents on the midweek fixture.

England's Starting XI

  • England's number one – Pulled off a few of good stops in the latter period to maintain his impressive clean sheet run. It's now nine straight in a row. 6.5
  • The full-back – Seems at home in international football like a duck to water. Sterner tests are coming, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7
  • The defender – Two games in a short span will do the City defender a world of good. Still one of the automatic picks on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
  • Ezri Konsa – Picked ahead of the other option and performed solidly. Executed an superb last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7
  • Arsenal's talent – Looked a somewhat off the pace at times, understandable given his limited game time at Arsenal. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
  • Elliott Anderson – Looks undroppable in this England team at the moment. Looks suited to this level and has struck up an strong partnership with Rice. 7
  • Declan Rice – Enjoying his advanced midfield role. The backbone of England's midfield is showing his attacking abilities now. Emerging as a true all-round midfielder. 7
  • The forward – Quieter as he has been in England's wins over previous opponents. The answer will come next month who is the rightful holder of the number 10 shirt. 6
  • The winger – Contributed an assist to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be crucial to England's chances next summer. 7.5
  • The striker – At his peak. Boosted his total for the season to 20 strikes. Has scored 76 goals for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
  • Newcastle's attacker – Precise finish to open the scoring for England here in away. Has acquitted himself well during this international window. 7.5

Subs' Impact

  • The experienced midfielder (for Rice 60) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6
  • Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Excellently taken goal and a danger. 7
  • West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to earn a place when the squad is full. 6
  • The defender (for Stones 71) – Predictably, dealt with everything in the air. 6
  • The forward (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left caught the eye. 6

With a World Cup spot secured, England can now focus for next summer with confidence.

Stephanie Mcbride
Stephanie Mcbride

A productivity coach and mindfulness advocate with over a decade of experience helping individuals optimize their routines.