A win in Latvia on Tuesday evening will seal England's place at the 2026 World Cup after Albania's victory away to Serbia on Saturday only served to muddy the waters further in the race to finish second in Group K behind the Three Lions.
Serbia were seen as potential dangers to England when the draw for the group was made but, beaten 5-0 by Thomas Tuchel's side in Belgrade last month, their campaign has fallen apart to the extent that coach Dragan Stojkovic handed in his resignation after the Albania defeat.
Albania are now in pole position to reach the play-offs and their final game at home to England could have plenty riding on it for the hosts.
England's U21s were comfortable winners in Moldova on Friday, Lee Carsley's side now with two victories on the road in their bid to qualify for the 2027 Euros and win a third consecutive title.
They return home on Monday evening when Andorra are the opponents at Pride Park in Derby.
