England FIFA World Cup: England is on the brink of securing qualification for the 2026 World Cup, and Tuesday evening’s clash against Latvia in Riga presents the perfect opportunity to seal their place at the top of Group K. After Serbia’s unexpected 1-0 defeat to Albania, England now find themselves in pole position.

Prepare yourself for the biggest football celebration with the England FIFA World Cup now available at gettickets365! From thrilling group stage clashes to the unforgettable FIFA World Cup Final, our site offers a simple and secure way to purchase your tickets at unbeatable prices. Be part of the excitement as millions of fans unite for the world’s most prestigious tournament. Grab your FIFA 2026 today!

They need just three more points to confirm their place in the tournament with two matches to spare. However, as manager Thomas Tuchel prepares his squad for this decisive fixture, he is faced with several key selection dilemmas, most notably the fitness of captain Harry Kane. Kane, England’s all-time leading scorer, missed the recent 3-0 friendly.

He missed over Wales game due to a minor ankle injury sustained in his last club appearance. Tuchel has remained cautiously optimistic about his return, stating that the striker is still experiencing too much pain when striking the ball. While the injury is not considered serious, the England boss has admitted that it was too risky to include Kane against Wales.

FIFA 2026: Kane Doubtful, Watkins Set to Start as Injuries Hit England Attack

However, Tuchel added that they were allowing the injury time to settle, expressing confidence that Kane will be fit to lead the line in Riga. Should Kane not recover in time, Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins is expected to retain his place after a strong showing against Wales, where he netted his second goal of the season. Watkins was preferred to Marcus Rashford in the starting XI last week.

Be part of football history as it unfolds! With gettickets365, you can purchase your FIFA World Cup 2026 safely and easily. From the FIFA World Cup Semi-Final to the legendary FIFA World Cup Final, our platform ensures a smooth booking experience for fans worldwide. Browse our ticket options today and reserve your seat at the Football World Cup 2026 for the matches you’ve always dreamed of seeing live!

Although Rashford featured in the second half, and remains a viable option from the bench. England's attacking depth has taken a significant hit, with a number of regulars sidelined due to injury. Cole Palmer, James Maddison, and Noni Madueke are all unavailable, limiting Tuchel’s options in the final third. Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham, Jack Grealish.

And Phil Foden was not included in the original squad. Bellingham, in particular, has struggled for fitness this season following a serious shoulder injury and has started just one match for Real Madrid so far. The absence of so many creative players places added responsibility on the midfield partnership of Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson.

FIFA World Cup: Tuchel Faces Defensive Dilemmas Amid Injury Concerns

The latter, still relatively new to the senior set-up, impressed during the Wales match and is expected to keep his place in the starting XI. Defensively, Tuchel also has several decisions to make. The inclusion of experienced players like Jordan Pickford and Declan Rice in what was expected to be a low-key friendly against Wales suggests Tuchel is taking no chances as qualification nears.

Football lovers everywhere are eagerly awaiting the FIFA World Cup 2026. At gettickets365, we provide direct access to purchase your Buy FIFA 2026, whether it’s the exciting opening matches or the unforgettable Football World Cup Final. Secure your World Cup Tickets today and experience the thrill of the biggest football event on the planet live from the stadium!

In defense, Ezri Konsa is likely to continue at right-back, given injuries to both Reece James and Valentino Livramento. That decision leaves fewer central defensive options, with John Stones and Djed Spence potentially set to retain their places. However, Dan Burn, who has been regularly used by Tuchel since taking over the national team, could push for a return to the starting XI.

There are also question marks at left-back. Myles Lewis-Skelly had made a strong case to become first-choice in that position, but has lost momentum after losing his starting place at Arsenal. With limited options available, Tuchel must decide whether to stick with his current defensive set-up or hand a start to Burn or another makeshift full-back.

England FIFA World Cup: Midfield Stability and Tactical Consistency Key for Tuchel

In midfield, Rice’s leadership and consistency remain crucial, while Newcastle United’s Anderson has shown promise in recent appearances. Teenage talent Nico O’Reilly, who has been making waves at the youth level, could make his senior debut from the bench, though a starting role seems unlikely at this stage.

Tuchel’s line-up against Wales offered a glimpse into his tactical priorities, with the manager opting for a surprisingly strong team in what was essentially a friendly. That selection suggests he is placing a high value on rhythm, chemistry, and securing qualification early rather than experimenting with fringe players. As such, England fans can expect a largely similar side to the one that beat Wales.

With potentially only one or two changes, most notably the possible return of Kane if fit. All eyes will be on the final decision regarding Kane’s involvement, as his leadership and goal threat remain vital assets in high-stakes encounters. Nevertheless, with Watkins showing signs of form and a solid midfield spine led by Rice, England should have enough firepower.

Feel the excitement, intensity, and pride of the Football World Cup 2026 live in the stadium! At gettickets365, purchasing your FIFA World Cup 2026 has never been simpler, from group matches to the premium FIFA World Cup Final. Don’t miss your chance to support your nation on the grandest stage in football. Reserve your World Cup today!

Q1. Will Harry Kane play in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier against Latvia?
Kane is doubtful due to an ankle injury. A final decision will be made after a late fitness test.

Q2. Who will start if Kane misses the FIFA World Cup match vs Latvia?
Ollie Watkins is expected to start after scoring against Wales.

Q3. How many points does England need to qualify for World Cup?
England needs just 3 more points to secure qualification.

Q4. What is England’s current position in Football World Cup Group K?
England is at the top of Group K, following Serbia’s loss to Albania.

Q5. Which attacking players are missing from England’s FIFA 2026 squad?
Cole Palmer, James Maddison, and Noni Madueke are all injured and unavailable.