England became the first European nation to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, dismantling Latvia 5-0 in Riga on October 14, 2025, under coach Thomas Tuchel. Anthony Gordon opened the scoring with a curling strike in the 26th minute, followed by captain Harry Kane’s brace—a powerful shot from the edge of the box and a penalty before halftime. A second-half own goal by Latvia’s Maksims Tonisevs and a late strike from substitute Eberechi Eze sealed the rout. England’s flawless Group K campaign, with six wins, 18 goals scored, and none conceded, secured their spot with two games to spare. Despite the triumph, Tuchel faced sarcastic chants from fans responding to his earlier critique of their support, with cries of “Are we loud enough for you?” echoing at Daugava Stadium. Social media buzzed with praise for Kane’s 76th and 77th international goals, as England eyes a second World Cup title in North America.
