England conclude their World Cup qualification campaign this evening against Albania in Tirana.
Thomas Tuchel’s side have been flawless in qualification so far, winning all seven fixtures to secure their World Cup place with games to spare. England have been so dominant in Group K that the Three Lions are yet to concede a single goal.
Much has been made about England’s abundance of attacking talent, with Tuchel admitting he has difficult decisions to make regarding the selection of the likes of Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden. However, England’s defensive record also offers real encouragement that a genuine challenge for World Cup success can be mounted in 2026.
An overhauled defence has been impregnable in qualification to date. Squawka have revealed just how solid England have been, with the Three Lions having faced just three shots on target during their seven World Cup qualifiers so far.
England have got their defence locked down. 🔒
The Three Lions have faced just three shots on target across all seven World Cup qualifiers so far (0.43 per match).
Four matches have ended without them facing a single shot on target, more than any other side in qualifying.… pic.twitter.com/k8S9NpB7B2
— Squawka (@Squawka) November 16, 2025
England have not conceded more than one shot on target in any of their qualification games, while four fixtures have passed without the concession of a shot on target.
The success comes despite much change. Of the defenders to have started the Euro 2024 final last summer, none have played more than three qualifiers.
Ezri Konsa, an unused substitute in that defeat to Spain, has featured in all seven qualifiers, while names including Dan Burn, Djed Spence and the fit-again Reece James have excelled when called upon.
Tougher tests await at the World Cup next summer, but England can head into the tournament with optimism.
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