Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifier
Throughout a commanding performance, the English national team clinched a further win against Albania, with multiple squad members producing notable performances throughout the game.
Starting Eleven
The goalkeeper Not a save required before the break but then tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding intervention on Qazim Laci showed excellent game intelligence. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Examined against the opposition's primary attacker in their forward. Started more centrally to begin with then shifted wider once Saka came on. Seven
The defender Moved forward on the ball, something he's known for in the past. At times seemed hesitant on the ball and the experiment abandoned at half-time. 6/10
Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, per usual, but may be a replacement for Stones in the backline as opposed to paired with him. One wayward distribution later in the match came close to a goal for Albania. Six
Nico O’Reilly Another composed performance by the rising star after his first cap versus another side. Saka failed to make full advantage of a gorgeous backheel over the opposing backline. The left-back spot is firmly his so soon. 7
The newcomer A debut start for his country. A bit loose on the ball but his inswinging deliveries were a threat. A useful game manager for the boss to utilize versus defensive opponents. Cautioned after a reckless challenge. 6
The midfielder Set-pieces on corner kicks and free kicks caused problems. Had freedom to move down the left flank but was offside when the ball arrived in front of goal. Awarded a well-earned break on the hour mark. 6/10
Jude Bellingham Played in a forward role on the right while also did plenty of dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but mishit an effort high. Replaced in the closing stages for Rogers, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Had England’s top opening in the opening period, his effort well saved from the Albanian keeper. With Quansah hanging back, it fell to him to offer an outlet on the right but his crosses into the box were hit and miss. Replaced late in the match. Six
Harry Kane The match-winner with his two more finishes for his country. The opener a typical close-range tap-in and his next a superb header after peeling away away from the opposition. Now 32, he’s only getting better and England have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a decent opportunity following a pass by the midfielder but the keeper denied him. His replacement had a greater influence in his place. 5
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright and linked up seamlessly with the striker in a preferred position, 6
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner provided the breakthrough, Six
- Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Energetic upon introduction and set up Kane’s second with superb cross to the back post, 7/10
- Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, Six
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Not enough time to influence the game, Six