England have became the first nation from Europe to punch their ticket to next summer’s World Cup finals.

While a number of sides are well placed to secure their place in North America in 2026, it is Thomas Tuchel’s side who are first to pass the post, courtesy of a 5-0 win over Latvia in Riga.

Anthony Gordon and Eberechi Eze scored, while captain Harry Kane struck a brace in the one-sided Group K victory. 

The German coach has enjoyed a strong start to life as England boss, winning seven of his eight games so far – the only loss coming in a friendly against Senegal.

Fifteen other sides will join the Three Lions from UEFA’s qualifying sector at the tournament next summer.

It continues their run of form that has not seen England absent from a World Cup finals since the previous edition held in the USA in 1994.

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