England secured their place at the 2026 Fifa World Cup with two qualification matches to spare after a comprehensive 5-0 victory over Latvia in Riga. The win, at the Daugava Stadium, maintained their perfect record in Group K, with six wins from six and no goals conceded.
Harry Kane scored twice to take his England tally to 76 goals in 110 appearances, moving further clear as the nation's leading scorer. Anthony Gordon and Eberechi Eze also found the net, while Latvia's Maksims Toņiševs turned the ball into his own goal. Kane's double took him to five England hat-tricks, although he missed a late chance to equal Gary Lineker's record of six.
Head coach Thomas Tuchel praised his side's performance, saying: "Brilliant, brilliant … such a good mood in the dressing room … it is our dream to go to America … we made it … another good performance … top result … six wins … clean sheet … very happy." He also noted the team's hunger and high pressing, and joked about the England fans singing "Are we loud enough for you?!" saying he could handle the stick.
Captain Harry Kane highlighted the competition for places within the squad, stating: "We have players who will be itching to get back into the squad … we need them as well … there will be a little bit of chop and change … that's the competition." He also defended the away support, adding: "I don't think you can question our away support ever."
England top Group K with 18 points, nine ahead of second-placed Albania and eight clear of Serbia. Their final qualifiers are at home to Serbia and away to Albania next month. The victory ensures they are the first European team to confirm their spot at the World Cup.
