England cruise as Spence steals the spotlight
England sealed World Cup qualification with a 5 to 0 victory in Riga. Harry Kane scored twice while Anthony Gordon and Eberechi Eze added one each and an own goal completed the score. The moment that set social media buzzing came from Djed Spence who started at right back for only the second time and delivered a show of confidence and flair.
Rabona cross and an assist ignite the right flank
Spence drove to the byline, executed a Cruyff turn to wrong foot his marker and whipped in a rabona cross. Minutes later another delivery from his side caused havoc and was turned into the Latvia net by Maksims Tonisevs. The sequence captured his current form and drew a wave of praise from Tottenham supporters who lauded the audacity and personality he showed on the ball.
Fans and pundits hail a full back in form
Posts on X celebrated the rabona and highlighted Spence as a player operating at a high level. With Tino Livramento injured, Spence has strengthened his case for a regular role and Rio Ferdinand has described him as England’s best one v one defender, backing him to start at next summer’s World Cup.
Spence vs Latvia match stats
| Stat | Total |
|---|---|
| Minutes | 90 |
| Touches | 106 |
| Accurate passes | 74 of 80 93 percent |
| Tackles won | 2 of 3 |
| Ground duels won | 4 of 7 |
What it means for England
Qualification is secure and momentum is positive. Spence has placed pressure on rivals for the full back spots including Lewis Hall, Myles Lewis Skelly, Kieran Trippier and Trent Alexander Arnold. His mix of defensive timing and expressive delivery offers a compelling option as the Three Lions look ahead to North America.
