England secures a spot in the 2026 World Cup: Kane's hat-trick and a rout of Latvia.

England wins against Latvia and qualifies for the 2026 World Cup

According to The Sun: Harry Kane made a big return from injury: England secured its place in the 2026 World Cup by thrashing Latvia 5-0.

The 32-year-old forward, who missed the match against Wales (3-0) last week, scored twice in Riga, with goals from Anthony Gordon and Eberechi Eze.

Kane's first goal was a powerful shot into the bottom left corner, and the second was a calm penalty at the end of the first half. Both goals came after Gordon opened the scoring in the 26th minute.

The fourth goal was the result of a precise pass from Jed Spence, which deflected off Maksims Tonisevs' leg into his own net. Eberechi Eze sealed the final score by hitting the net from outside the penalty area.

This memorable night for England was marked by Jordan Pickford's excellent performance.

Player ratings

Jordan Pickford – 6

This is his ninth 'clean' victory, which is a good indicator, but this time he was busier than usual. Made a few successful saves as Latvia created some goal-scoring opportunities.

Jed Spence – 6

His versatility has been a real advantage. Played as a left back against Wales and then switched to the right flank during the match in Riga. Made the assist that led to Latvia's own goal.

Ezri Konsa – 7

Played in the center of defense, providing a rest for Marc Guéhi. Made an incredible tackle that prevented Vladislav Gutkovskiy from scoring.

John Stones – 7

Did not play for England for a year but showed good form during these two matches. Made a brilliant pass for the first goal.

Miles Lewis-Skelly – 6

This is his sixth cap for the national team, and he is still finding his place in the squad. Jordan Pickford advised him to stay focused during Latvia's dangerous moments.

Morgan Rogers – 7

After a few successful games, this match was quieter, but it did not raise any concerns for Jude Bellingham.

Elliot Anderson – 6

It seems he has found his place in the English midfield despite this being only his fourth match. However, his shots were not always accurate.

Declan Rice – 6

This was his 70th cap. He was unable to showcase his best qualities but caught the attention of Arsenal fans, who were relieved to see him substituted 30 minutes before the end of the game.

Bukayo Saka – 6

Won the ball before the second goal, although he had to work hard to take it from Harry Kane. Showed some skill, but was tightly marked.

Anthony Gordon – 7

Scored a wonderful goal, his second for England in 16 matches. He seems ready for the World Cup.

Harry Kane – 8

Opened the scoring just 40 seconds into the game, but his goal was only confirmed after a review. Then he scored the 85th and 86th goals in 110 caps for the national team before halftime. He performed at full capacity.

Substitutions: Anderson (for Rice, 59 min), Eze (for Rogers, 60 min), Bowen (for Saka, 60 min), Rashford (for Gordon, 71 min), Burn (for Stones, 71 min).

Unused substitutions: D. Henderson, Trafford, Guéhi, Gibbs-White, Loftus-Cheek, O'Reilly.