England secured their place at the World Cup finals with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Latvia in Riga, but the lack of jeopardy in a weak qualifying group has raised questions about how the side will fare against elite opposition. Harry Kane made it 3-0 just before half-time, adding to Anthony Gordon's opener, as Thomas Tuchel's team maintained their perfect record in Group K with six wins from six.
Gordon was the standout performer, scoring the first goal and causing constant problems for Latvia's defence. Tuchel praised the winger's directness and high-intensity runs, while Elliot Anderson impressed again in midfield and John Stones looked assured at the back. However, the manager faced some criticism from travelling fans, who aimed chants at him during the first half following his comments about the atmosphere at last week's friendly win over Wales.
The ease of qualification means England have not been seriously tested in a competitive match since Tuchel took charge. With dead rubbers against Serbia and Albania next month, and friendlies against Japan and Uruguay in March, the head coach will have limited opportunities to assess his team's readiness for a knockout clash against top sides like Spain or France.
Key questions remain over the role of Jude Bellingham, who has struggled for form, and how to fit Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, and others into an attacking lineup. The coming months will provide answers, but for now, England's true measure remains unknown.
