Harry Kane scored twice as England became the first European nation to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following a dominant 5–0 victory over Latvia on Tuesday night in Riga.
Anthony Gordon opened the scoring midway through the first half before an own goal from Maksims Tonisevs, a strike from Eberechi Eze, and a Harry Kane brace completed a commanding performance from Thomas Tuchel’s men.
The result guarantees England top spot in Group K of UEFA qualifying with two matches to spare, maintaining a 100% record under Tuchel — six wins, 18 goals scored, and none conceded.
“It comes rarely that you qualify for a World Cup, so the mood is very, very good,” said an elated Tuchel. “In the dressing room, it’s all smiles and music. It’s a moment to enjoy because it’s special.”
After an unsteady start to his tenure with narrow wins over Albania and Andorra and a friendly loss to Senegal, Tuchel’s England have found their rhythm, blending defensive solidity with attacking flair.
Despite leaving out Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden, the German tactician was vindicated as his emphasis on consistency and cohesion paid off handsomely.
Gordon continued his fine form on the left wing, cutting inside to curl home England’s opener — his second international goal — before Kane struck twice in four minutes just before halftime.
The Bayern Munich striker showed his class with a composed finish on his weaker foot to make it 2–0, then added his second from the spot after being tugged by Latvia captain Antonijs Cernomordijs. The goals took his international tally to 76 in 110 appearances.
Reflecting on the win, Kane said: “We talked about building momentum, no matter who we play. We’ve done that — winning games, keeping clean sheets, pressing high, and scoring goals.”
England comfortably managed the second half, with Tuchel using all five substitutions to rotate his squad while preserving their attacking shape and defensive discipline.
With qualification sealed, attention now turns to maintaining momentum as England continue their march toward the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
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