Gareth Southgate's England squad face a potentially tricky test as they travel to Riga for their Euro 2025 qualifying clash against Latvia on Monday night. The Three Lions will be looking to maintain their 100% record in Group C against a Latvian side determined to cause an upset.
Team News and Expected Lineups
England are expected to make several changes from their previous outing, with Southgate likely to rotate his squad. Harry Kane is anticipated to lead the line once again, supported by the creative talents of Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden in midfield.
Potential England Starting XI:
- Jordan Pickford in goal
- Kyle Walker and Kieran Trippier providing width from full-back
- Harry Maguire and John Stones forming the central defensive partnership
- Declan Rice anchoring midfield alongside Bellingham
- Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford offering pace on the wings
- Harry Kane captaining the side from attack
Tactical Analysis
Latvia are expected to adopt a defensive approach, likely setting up with a compact low block to frustrate England's attacking players. The home side will rely on counter-attacks and set-piece opportunities to threaten Jordan Pickford's goal.
England's key to breaking down this resistance will be patience and quick ball movement. The creative combination of Bellingham and Foden could prove decisive in unlocking a stubborn Latvian defence.
Historical Context and Prediction
England have dominated previous encounters between the two nations, winning all four meetings while scoring 15 goals without reply. This historical dominance, combined with England's superior quality throughout the squad, makes the Three Lions overwhelming favourites.
Prediction: Despite Latvia's likely defensive resilience, England's firepower should ultimately prove too much. A comfortable 3-0 victory for the visitors appears the most likely outcome, with Kane expected to add to his impressive goal tally.
The match represents another step in England's preparations for the European Championship finals, with Southgate using these qualifiers to fine-tune his tactics and squad depth ahead of the tournament proper.
