England Achieves Rare Feats Against Latvia: Two Milestones Not Seen Since 1992
Updated 21:42 24 Mar 2025 GMT
Published 21:38 24 Mar 2025 GMT
England celebrated a dominant victory over Latvia, marking not one, but two significant achievements unseen since 1992. One of these milestones was reached even before the match commenced, highlighting a truly unique occasion for the Three Lions.
Continuing their journey in the World Cup qualifying campaign, England faced Latvia on Monday, following their successful 2-0 win against Albania at Wembley Stadium last Friday.
Under the guidance of new manager Thomas Tuchel, England secured another victory. Goals were scored by debutant Myles Lewis-Skelly, making his first senior international appearance, and seasoned striker Harry Kane, ensuring Tuchel’s managerial tenure started on a positive note.
Building on their momentum, the Three Lions clinched their second consecutive win with a convincing 3-0 triumph over Latvia. Chelsea defender Reece James initiated the scoring with a spectacular free-kick in the first half. Harry Kane extended the lead in the second half, converting a pass from Declan Rice. Eberechi Eze further solidified England’s victory, adding the third goal.
However, even before the first whistle, England had already etched their name in the record books by achieving something not witnessed since 1992.
England named a starting XI without a single player from Liverpool, Manchester City or Manchester United for the first time since 1992. Image: Getty
For the first time in over three decades, England’s starting lineup against Latvia featured zero players from Premier League giants Liverpool, Manchester City, or Manchester United. This unprecedented team selection by Thomas Tuchel marked a departure from the norm.
In contrast, Tuchel’s debut lineup against Albania just days prior included Liverpool’s Curtis Jones and Manchester City’s Phil Foden. However, for the Latvia match, both Jones and Foden were replaced, paving the way for fresh faces.
West Ham United’s Jarrod Bowen and Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers were brought into the starting eleven, showcasing the depth of talent within the England squad.
Adding another layer to the narrative, Marcus Rashford, currently on loan at Aston Villa after his January transfer window move from Manchester United, earned his second consecutive start for England – a personal milestone he hadn’t achieved since October 2023.
Furthermore, Reece James’s stunning free-kick goal was not just the opening score; it was also a historical moment. James became the first England defender to score directly from a free-kick at Wembley Stadium since Stuart Pearce accomplished the feat in 1992, as highlighted by BBC’s Match of the Day.
Stuart Pearce’s memorable free-kick contributed to England’s 4-0 victory over Turkey back in 1992.
Looking ahead, England is set to resume their World Cup qualifying campaign in June with a match against Andorra. Additionally, fans can anticipate an international friendly against Senegal scheduled for June 10th at the City Ground.
Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: England, Thomas Tuchel, Football
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