Player Assessments: England Book Their Place for 2026 World Cup
England earned their place at the 2026 World Cup with a convincing triumph over their opponents on the midweek fixture.
England's Starting XI
- The goalkeeper – Pulled off a couple of fine stops in the latter period to preserve his remarkable clean sheet record. That's 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
- John Stones – Two matches in a short span will do the Manchester City defender a great benefit. Remains one of the key players on the starting lineup, fitness permitting. 7
- Ezri Konsa – Selected ahead of Marc Guehi and didn't put a foot wrong. Executed an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
- The young defender – Appeared a little off the pace at times, expected given his scarce minutes at Arsenal. An interesting few months ahead. 6
- The midfielder – Looks irreplaceable in this England team at the moment. Seems made for this level and has developed an productive partnership with Rice. 7
- Arsenal's engine – Thriving in his attacking role. The backbone of England's midfield is displaying his offensive abilities now. Developing into a true all-round midfielder. 7
- Morgan Rogers – Not as impactful as he has been in England's successes over previous opponents. We should find out next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6
- The winger – Contributed an setup to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
- The striker – At his peak. Increased his total for the season to 20 strikes. Has found the net 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 acquitted himself well during this international window. 7.5
England Substitutes
- The experienced midfielder (for Rice 60) – Kept play flowing in midfield. 6
- Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Well-executed goal and a menace. 7
- The winger (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to earn a place when everyone's fit. 6
- Dan Burn (for Stones 71) – Typically, managed everything with his height. 6
- The forward (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left stood out. 6
With qualification secured, England can now focus for the World Cup with optimism.