Thomas Tuchel made it two wins from two as England manager, guiding the Three Lions to a 3-0 victory over a resilient Latvia in World Cup qualifying at Wembley.
A stunning free kick from Reece James, a composed finish from captain Harry Kane, and a deflected effort from Eberechi Eze ensured England took all three points, placing them atop their qualification group.
Dominant Start, Latvia Resists
England began with intent, pinning Latvia deep in their half. Marcus Rashford and Jarrod Bowen were lively on the flanks, creating early chances, with Rashford nearly setting up Jude Bellingham inside three minutes. Bowen also had a pair of attempts but failed to convert.
Despite minimal possession, Latvia threatened in the 18th minute when Raivis Jurkovskis broke free down the right, only to find the side netting. England responded, forcing a reflex save from Krisjanis Zviedris to deny Ezri Konsa, before Kane headed over from close range.
Latvia’s low defensive block proved stubborn, but England finally found the breakthrough in the 37th minute. James, making his first England start since 2022, curled a sublime 25-yard free kick into the top corner after Myles Lewis-Skelly was fouled.
Just before halftime, Jordan Pickford comfortably dealt with an effort from Alvis Jaunzems, while debutant Morgan Rogers saw his first-time shot saved following Bowen’s cutback.
England Wraps It Up in Style
The hosts continued to dominate possession after the break. Kane came close just after the hour mark, narrowly missing the target after being teed up by Bellingham.
He made no mistake minutes later, however, tapping in Declan Rice’s cross in the 68th minute following excellent buildup play by Rashford and Rogers.
England sealed the win in the closing stages when Eze’s jinking run ended with a shot that took a decisive deflection off Antonijs Cernomordijs, making it 3-0.
Tuchel’s side now sits in a commanding position in their qualification group, with momentum firmly on their side.
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