England have secured their place at the 2026 World Cup in North America, making them the first European nation to qualify for the tournament. A dominant 5-0 victory over Latvia in Riga sealed their qualification with two matches to spare in Group K. Goals from Anthony Gordon, a brace from Harry Kane, an own goal, and a late strike from Eberechi Eze ensured a comfortable victory and continued England's perfect record in the qualifying campaign.

Despite the impressive qualification, questions remain about England's ability to win the World Cup next summer. Coach Thomas Tuchel has even stated that England will be "underdogs" at the World Cup, highlighting the team's lack of success in major tournaments since 1966. While the team has reached the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and the final of Euro 2020, they have consistently fallen short of ultimate glory.

Here are some key issues that England need to address to become genuine contenders for the World Cup:

• Defining the Starting XI: Tuchel faces several selection dilemmas, with only a handful of players considered guaranteed starters. Key positions, such as right-back and left-back, are still up for grabs, with injuries and inconsistent form affecting potential candidates. The midfield also presents a challenge, with competition for places intense. Finding the right balance and chemistry within the team will be crucial for success.
• Defensive Stability: While England have maintained a perfect defensive record in qualifying, tougher tests await at the World Cup. The central defense pairing needs to be solidified, and the team's ability to defend against top-quality opposition needs to be assessed.
• Tactical Flexibility: England's tactical approach has often been criticized for being too rigid and predictable. Tuchel needs to develop a more adaptable system that can be adjusted based on the opponent and the match situation. The ability to switch between different formations and strategies will be essential in navigating the challenges of a World Cup tournament.
• Dealing with Pressure: England have often struggled to perform under pressure in major tournaments. Overcoming the psychological barrier of being a major nation with a long wait for an international trophy is crucial. Tuchel needs to instill a belief and resilience within the squad to handle the expectations and pressure that come with competing at the highest level.
• Adapting to the Climate: The 2026 World Cup will be held in North America, with matches played in varying climates and conditions. England will need to prepare for the potential challenges posed by the heat and humidity, particularly in the group stages. Developing strategies to manage fatigue and maintain performance levels in adverse conditions will be vital.

Despite these challenges, England possess a talented squad with a good mix of youth and experience. With players like Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, and Jude Bellingham, they have the potential to compete with the best teams in the world. If Tuchel can address the key issues and create a cohesive and adaptable team, England could finally end their long wait for a major international trophy.