James Shines in England’s Victory
England grabbed their second World Cup qualifying win in just four days with a solid 3-0 victory over Latvia at Wembley on Tuesday morning (AEDT). The match wasn’t overly exciting, but the Three Lions were clearly in control. Reece James really stood out by scoring a great free-kick and creating some dangerous crosses. James Stars in England Victory.
ICYMT: England Cruise in World Cup Qualifier
Goalkeeper & Defenders
Jordan Pickford – 6/10
Pickford had a shaky first half, almost giving Latvia a chance to score due to a mistake. After that, he didn’t have much to do. James Stars in England Victory.
Reece James – 8/10
James returned to the lineup for the first time since 2022 and made a big impact. His amazing free-kick opened the scoring, and he kept providing dangerous crosses. James Stars in England Victory.
Ezri Konsa – 7/10
Konsa put in a calm and confident performance, which is becoming a trademark for him. He nearly scored in the first half too.
Marc Guehi – 6/10
A little miscommunication with Pickford almost led to trouble, but Guehi recovered well and handled his duties okay.
Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7/10
The 18-year-old kept impressing after his record debut. He showed maturity, contributing well both defensively and in attack.
Midfielders & Attackers
Declan Rice – 7/10
Rice dominated the midfield again, proving why he’s essential for England. He also got an assist in the second half, completing another good game. James Stars in England Victory.
Jarrod Bowen – 6/10
Bowen started in place of Phil Foden but didn’t make much of an impact and was subbed off after 60 minutes.
Morgan Rogers – 7/10
Making his first start, Rogers showed he can take on defenders and created some good chances.
Jude Bellingham – 6/10
Bellingham got lucky not to see a red card after a reckless tackle in the second half, having already been booked. He was subbed off partway through the second half.
Marcus Rashford – 6/10
After some criticism from coach Thomas Tuchel, Rashford looked a bit more threatening this time but didn’t provide a final touch.
Harry Kane – 7/10
Kane scored his 71st international goal, adding to his impressive tally. He had chances for more but had to settle for one.
Substitutes
Eberechi Eze (on for Bowen, 60’) – 7/10
Eze made an instant impact, scoring his first goal for England to wrap up the win.
Phil Foden (on for Bellingham, 67’) – 6/10
Foden played in his usual number 10 spot and was active but didn’t really change the game much.
Curtis Jones (on for Rashford, 78’) – 7/10
Jones came in late and helped keep the midfield steady with good passing and positioning.
Jordan Henderson (on for Rice, 78’) – 5/10
Henderson kept things neat in the midfield, but didn’t make a strong impact.
Kyle Walker (on for Lewis-Skelly, 78’) – 5/10
Walker had little to do after coming on in the final minutes.
Final Thoughts
England’s win over Latvia was straightforward, even if it didn’t have much excitement. Reece James was the standout player, while Harry Kane kept adding to his goal count. With this qualifying win in the bag, England is looking to keep the momentum going as they head toward next summer’s World Cup.
