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

In a commanding showing, the English national team clinched a further win against their opponents, featuring multiple squad members producing notable performances on the pitch.

First-choice Lineup

The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to perform before the break until tested by an opponent's curled attempt. One well-timed sliding intervention against an Albanian attacker showed sharp anticipation. 6/10

The debutant Challenged against the opposition's primary attacker in Hoxha. Played more centrally early on but moved to the flank once Saka came on. 7/10

John Stones Pushed into midfield with the ball at his feet, as he has done previously. At times was too casual when carrying play with the experiment was shelved by the interval. 6/10

Dan Burn A constant threat at set pieces, typically, perhaps is a replacement to his teammate at the back rather than his partner. A loose pass after the break almost led to a goal from Albania. Six

Nico O’Reilly Another composed display from the rising star after his first cap against another side. A teammate failed to make full advantage of a gorgeous flick behind their defense. The left-back spot looks secure at this stage. 7

The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. Slightly loose on the ball however his inswinging corners were a threat. A useful game manager available to the boss to have versus defensive opponents. Shown a yellow after a reckless tackle. 6

The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and free-kicks were dangerous. Enjoyed freedom to roam on the left yet found himself in an offside position when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Given a merited rest on the hour mark. 6

Jude Bellingham Operated in a high position down the right while also put in dirty work. Displayed moments of class but mishit an effort over. Substituted in the closing stages for Rogers, his rival, after being booked. 7/10

The winger Was presented with England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his shot smartly stopped from the Albanian keeper. As Quansah staying deep, he had to provide width on the right yet his deliveries from the touchline varied in quality. Taken off with 15 to go. 6/10

Harry Kane The decisive figure with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth strikes at international level. The opener a typical poacher’s finish and his next an excellent header having drifted away away from the opposition. Now 32, his form is unwavering and England are strong contenders in future competitions when he's in the team. 8

The attacker Found it tough to get into the game from the left. Had a decent opportunity following a pass by Bellingham but Strakosha kept it out. Rashford produced a bigger effect when substituted. 5

Substitutes

  • Phil Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and combined effectively with the striker in more familiar role, Six
  • Bukayo Saka (for Eze 63) Missed opportunities although his set-piece provided the first goal, 6/10
  • Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Active upon introduction assisting Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the back post, Seven
  • Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable at this level, Six
  • Morgan Rogers (for the star 84) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, Six
Rachael Hudson
Rachael Hudson

Wildlife biologist with a passion for sloth research and environmental advocacy, sharing insights from field studies in Central America.