England Secure 2026 World Cup Qualification

England became the first European nation to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a commanding 5-0 victory over Latvia in Riga. Thomas Tuchel’s side extended their perfect record in Group K to six wins from six, amassing 18 points—seven points clear of second-placed Albania.

Anthony Gordon opened the scoring before Harry Kane struck twice, including a penalty, taking his tally for club and country to 21 goals in just 13 games this season. Maksims Tonisevs added an own-goal, and Eberechi Eze completed the rout, ensuring England’s early qualification for the global tournament.

Tuchel praised the team’s achievement, stating, “It comes rarely that you qualify for a World Cup, so the mood is very, very good.” England now await the December draw to determine their path in next year’s finals.

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Cristiano Ronaldo Sets World Cup Qualifying Record

While England celebrated, Portugal had to settle for a 2-2 draw with Hungary in Lisbon. Cristiano Ronaldo scored both Portuguese goals, surpassing Carlos Ruiz of Guatemala to become the all-time top goalscorer in World Cup qualifying with 41 goals.

Ronaldo equalized for Portugal after Attila Szalai had given Hungary the lead and later put Portugal ahead just before halftime. However, Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai scored in injury time to deny Portugal a win, keeping Hungary five points behind with two games remaining in Group F.

Ronaldo now has 143 international goals in 225 appearances, solidifying his legendary status as one of football’s greatest goal scorers.

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Italy Defeat Israel Amid Pro-Palestinian Protests

In Udine, Italy defeated Israel 3-0 in a Group I qualifier amid heightened security and pro-Palestinian demonstrations. Mateo Retegui scored twice, including a first-half penalty, and Gianluca Mancini added a late header. Israel’s defeat ended their 2026 World Cup qualification hopes.

The demonstrations, while mostly peaceful, reflected opposition to Israel’s military actions in Gaza and led to a significant police presence around the Bluenergy Stadium. Italy now sit three points behind group leaders Norway with two matches left.

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Spain and Other European Qualification Updates

European champions Spain moved closer to qualification with a 4-0 victory over Bulgaria in Valladolid. Mikel Merino scored twice, and Mikel Oyarzabal converted a late penalty. Spain are three points clear of Turkiye, who defeated Georgia 4-1, maintaining pressure at the top of Group E.

Elsewhere, Serbia fought back to defeat Andorra 3-1 in Group F, keeping pace with Albania for second place. Ireland also secured a narrow 1-0 win against Armenia, keeping their hopes alive in the same group.

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Conclusion: European Teams on Track for 2026

England’s early qualification, Ronaldo’s record-breaking achievement, and ongoing tight races across European groups highlight the drama of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Fans across the continent now look ahead to the final fixtures, where nations will battle for the remaining coveted spots in football’s most prestigious tournament.