England vs Latvia: Tuchel Makes Four Changes for Second Nations League Match

England vs Latvia – Nations League: Live Updates
By Harry Bamforth, Oliver Holt, Ian Ladyman, and Jack Gaughan
Published: 18:00 GMT, 24 March 2025 | Updated: 18:42 GMT, 24 March 2025

Image: England players line up at Wembley ahead of kick-off

England hosted Latvia at Wembley Stadium in their Nations League clash, with manager Thomas Tuchel making four changes to his starting XI for his second game in charge. The match marked a pivotal moment as the Three Lions aimed to solidify their position in the tournament.

Pre-Match Build-Up

[Image: Thomas Tuchel gestures from the sidelines]
Tuchel’s tactical adjustments drew immediate attention, with key players rotated following England’s previous outing. Speculation swirled about whether the changes reflected fitness concerns or a strategic shift against Latvia’s defensive setup.

Latvia, ranked 85th in the world, arrived as underdogs but vowed to exploit counter-attacking opportunities. Their coach, Dainis Kazakevics, emphasized teamwork: “We respect England, but we’re here to challenge.”

First Half Highlights

[Image: England’s captain fires an early shot on goal]
England dominated possession early, with Declan Rice controlling midfield. A 12th-minute chance saw Phil Foden curl a shot just wide, while Jude Bellingham tested Latvian goalkeeper Roberts Ozols with a low drive.

Latvia struggled to break England’s press but nearly stunned the hosts in the 37th minute when Roberts Uldriķis headed wide from a rare corner.

Halftime Score: England 0-0 Latvia

Second Half Drama

[Image: Harry Kane celebrates his opening goal]
England broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute through Harry Kane, who tapped in a cross from Bukayo Saka. The goal ignited Wembley, but Latvia responded boldly, forcing Jordan Pickford into a fingertip save moments later.

Tuchel’s substitutes boosted England’s energy, with Cole Palmer threading a pass to Saka in the 68th minute, only for the Arsenal winger to blaze over. Latvia’s resilience began to waver, and Ivan Toney sealed the win in the 84th minute with a powerful header.

Full Time: England 2-0 Latvia

Key Takeaways

[Image: Tuchel applauds fans post-match]

• England’s depth shone: Squad rotations paid off as fresh legs maintained intensity.
• Latvia’s grit: Despite limited possession, their defensive organization impressed.
• Tuchel’s impact: Four changes, three points – tactical flexibility earned praise.

Stay tuned to Mail Sport for post-match analysis and player ratings.

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England vs Latvia – Nations League: Tuchel’s changes secure victory at Wembley

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