Squad Assessments: England Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier

In a impressive performance, the English national team clinched one more win against their opponents, with several players delivering notable displays on the pitch.

Starting Eleven

The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to perform in the first half before called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. His sliding intervention on Qazim Laci demonstrated his reading of the game. 6/10

The debutant Tested against the opposition's primary attacker in their forward. Operated in a central role early on but moved out wide once Saka entered the fray. 7

John Stones Moved forward on the ball, a familiar role previously. At times seemed hesitant on the ball with the tactic discontinued by the interval. 6/10

The tall defender A constant threat from dead balls, as always, perhaps is an alternative for his teammate in the backline instead of his partner. One wayward pass in the second half came close to a goal for Albania. Six

The young full-back A further composed performance from the youngster after his debut against Serbia. A teammate did not capitalize on full advantage of an exquisite touch over the Albania defence. The role is firmly his already. 7/10

The newcomer His first start for his country. Somewhat loose on the ball though his inswinging set-pieces caused problems. A useful game manager for the boss to call upon versus defensive opponents. Shown a yellow for a rash tackle. Six

Declan Rice Deliveries from dead balls and free kicks caused problems. Had room to move on the left only to be offside as the pass came in shooting positions. Awarded a well-earned substitution around the 60-minute point. 6/10

The star midfielder Played in a high role out wide and put in dirty work. Showed flashes of quality and dragged an effort over. Replaced in the closing stages for Rogers, a fellow player, following a yellow card. 7

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s best chance in the opening period, his shot smartly stopped by the opposing goalkeeper. As Quansah holding position, he was forced to provide width down the right side but his crosses into the box were hit and miss. Substituted late in the match. 6

Harry Kane The difference-maker with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals at international level. The opener a classic poacher’s finish and his next a classy header following a clever run off his defender. At 32, his form is unwavering with the national team are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8

Eberechi Eze Found it tough to make an impact from the left. Had a presentable chance after being played in from a teammate however the keeper made the save. Rashford had a greater influence in his place. 5

Substitutes

  • Phil Foden (for a teammate 63) Looked lively connecting effectively with the striker in more familiar role, 6
  • Bukayo Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner led to the opener, 6
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Energetic upon introduction assisting Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery into the area, Seven
  • Anderson (for Wharton 75) Seems settled already, Six
  • Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to make an impact, 6/10
Mary Moore
Mary Moore

A tech strategist with over a decade of experience in digital innovation and business transformation, passionate about empowering companies through technology.