Player Ratings: England Book Their Place for 2026 World Cup
England clinched their spot at the next World Cup with a convincing win over their opponents on Tuesday night.
First Eleven Performance
- England's number one – Made a few of good stops in the latter period to extend his remarkable clean sheet streak. That's nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
- The full-back – Has taken to international football with ease. Tougher tests await, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
- John Stones – A pair of fixtures in a short span will do the City defender a world of good. Remains one of the automatic picks on the starting lineup, fitness permitting. 7
- The centre-back – Picked ahead of his competitor and didn't put a foot wrong. Executed an excellent last-ditch recovery tackle in the later stages to boot. 7
- Arsenal's talent – Appeared a slightly ring rusty at times, expected given his scarce minutes at Arsenal. An interesting few months ahead. 6
- The midfielder – Seems irreplaceable in this England team at the moment. Appears made for this level and has struck up an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
- Declan Rice – Thriving in his attacking role. The mainstay of England's midfield is displaying his creative abilities now. Becoming a true all-round midfielder. 7
- The forward – Less influential as he has been in England's successes over Serbia and Wales. It will be revealed next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6
- Arsenal's star – Added an setup to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
- Harry Kane – At his peak. Took his tally for the season to 20 scores. Has scored 76 occasions for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
- The forward – Precise finish to get the ball rolling for England here in away. Has performed admirably during this international window. 7.5
Subs' Impact
- Jordan Henderson (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6
- Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a threat. 7
- The winger (for Saka 60) – Has a fight on his hands to be selected when everyone's fit. 6
- Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – Typically, managed everything with his height. 6
- Marcus Rashford (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left stood out. 6
With a World Cup spot confirmed, the team can now prepare for the upcoming tournament with optimism.