The highly anticipated World Cup qualifier match between England and Latvia at Wembley Stadium is set for March 24, 2025, at 19:45 GMT. This will be Thomas Tuchel’s second game in charge of the England national team, following a successful debut with a 2-0 victory over Albania. With several squad changes and tactical adjustments, fans are eagerly awaiting to see how Tuchel will shape the team for this crucial match.
Squad Changes and Selections
Newcastle United defender Tino Livramento has been left out of the squad after being an unused substitute in the Albania match. Anthony Gordon has withdrawn due to injury, while Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has been left out again. Morgan Gibbs-White and Jarrel Quansah return to the squad after missing the previous match. UEFA rules require a 23-man matchday squad, meaning Tuchel had to trim down his initial 26-man squad. Fans are keen to see how Tuchel will utilize the available players to maintain the team’s momentum.
Predicted Lineups and Tactics
For the Latvia match, Tuchel is expected to make several changes from the team that faced Albania. Players like Dean Henderson, Marc Guehi, Levi Colwill, and Dominic Solanke, who did not feature in the debut match, are likely to get a chance. The predicted lineup for England could be:
- Goalkeeper: Dean Henderson
- Defenders: Reece James, Marc Guehi, Levi Colwill, Myles Lewis-Skelly
- Midfielders: Curtis Jones, Declan Rice
- Forwards: Jarrod Bowen, Jude Bellingham, Marcus Rashford, Harry Kane
Latvia is expected to field a compact, deep defense led by coach Paolo Nicolato. Their lineup could include:
- Goalkeeper: Kristaps Zviedris
- Defenders: Artis Jurkovskis, Kristaps Balodis, Arturs Cernomordijs, Kristaps Ciganiks
- Midfielders: Kristaps Savalnieks, Deniss Melniks, Kristaps Savaljevs
- Forwards: Kristaps Zelenkovs, Kristaps Ikaunieks, Kristaps Gutkovskis
Match Predictions and Expectations
England is expected to dominate the match against Latvia. The Three Lions have a strong record at home in World Cup qualifiers, with a 32-game unbeaten streak in the group stages. Latvia, ranked 140th by FIFA, has never beaten a top-10 team in 23 attempts. Predictions generally favor England with a comfortable victory, with some anticipating a 3-0 or even a 5-0 win. The match is likely to be a significant test of Tuchel’s tactical approach and squad depth.
Fan Engagement
Fans are encouraged to share their thoughts on who they want to see picked against Latvia. Get involved by using #bbcfootball, via WhatsApp on 03301231826, or text 81111 (UK only, standard message rates apply). Your input can help shape the conversation around the match and add to the excitement leading up to the game.
Conclusion
The upcoming match between England and Latvia at Wembley is a significant moment in the early stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. With Tuchel’s tactical vision and the depth of England’s squad, the Three Lions are expected to continue their winning streak. Fans will be keen to see how Tuchel’s selections and tactics unfold in what promises to be an exciting match. Stay tuned for all the latest updates and join the conversation using the provided hashtags and contact details.
