England became the first European team to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a commanding 5-0 victory over Latvia in Riga. Under coach Thomas Tuchel, the Three Lions maintained a perfect six wins from six in Group K, guaranteeing top spot with 18 points.
England qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a resounding 5-0 victory over Latvia! 🏴 pic.twitter.com/76VWJM9Lwr
— Premier League (@premierleague) October 14, 2025
Harry Kane led the charge with two goals, while Anthony Gordon, Eberechi Eze, and a Latvian own goal sealed the rout. “It comes rarely that you qualify for a World Cup, so the mood is very, very good,” Tuchel said after the match.
Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo made history as Portugal drew 2-2 with Hungary in Lisbon. The 40-year-old striker became the top scorer in World Cup qualifying history, with 41 goals, surpassing Guatemala’s Carlos Ruiz. Despite Ronaldo’s brace, Dominik Szoboszlai’s late equaliser delayed Portugal’s qualification.
Elsewhere, Italy defeated Israel 3-0 amid pro-Palestinian protests in Udine, ending Israel’s qualification hopes, while Spain cruised past Bulgaria 4-0 to stay unbeaten in Group E.
The night underscored Europe’s shifting football landscape, with England celebrating early, Portugal waiting, and Italy and Spain reigniting their World Cup ambitions.
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