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England could become the first European nation to qualify for world cup 2026 when they take on Latvia tonight. The Three Lions have had an impeccable campaign so far, winning all five of their qualifying games, and a sixth win would mean they secure top spot in Group K.
since thomas tuchel Since taking over as England manager in early 2025, England have won six of their seven matches under the German, and their only mistake was a 3–1 defeat to Senegal in a friendly in June.
How can England qualify for the World Cup tonight?
England currently top Group K with 15 points, having won all five of their qualifying matches so far. It is a perfect record, bettered only by Norway in Group I, which has won all six of its games. Albania are second in the table with 11 points, but have played one game more than the Three Lions, while Serbia, currently in third, are eight points behind them with 7 points.
A win over Latvia this evening will give England three more points and take them to 18 with two matches left. This would mean that Albania would be unable to equalize – as the maximum points they can win is 17 – and England would secure their place at the top of the group. They will then qualify for the World Cup as group winners.
What happens if England draw or lose?
England’s last encounter against Latvia ended in a comfortable 3–0 victory at Wembley in March. But if they draw or lose this evening’s match, they will not be able to qualify for the World Cup until November.
If they draw, they will have 16 points while if they lose, they will have 15 points. Any result would potentially leave the door open for Albania to overtake them in the table, although for that to happen, England would have to lose both of their matches during the November camp.
If England fail to win tonight, they could qualify for the World Cup as soon as they face Serbia on November 13.
How many European teams will qualify for the World Cup?
A total of 16 European teams will qualify for the expanded tournament next year. 48 countries will participate in the 2026 World Cup and it will be held in Canada, Mexico and the United States.
The 12 qualifying group winners will automatically secure places in the tournament, with the remaining four places to be won through a play-off competition involving the 12 second-place teams.
So far, no European country has qualified, but England could be the first team to do so.
When is the World Cup?
The 2026 tournament begins on June 11 in Mexico City, with the final taking place in New Jersey on July 19.