Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Kane's Double in International Qualifier
In a dominant showing, the English national team secured one more triumph versus their opponents, featuring a number of squad members turning in standout performances during the match.
First-choice XI
The goalkeeper Had little to do required during the opening 45 before called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding intervention against Qazim Laci showed excellent anticipation. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Challenged by the opposition's biggest threat through their forward. Played in a central role early on but moved out wide after Saka entered the fray. 7
John Stones Pushed into midfield when in possession, something he's known for before. On occasion seemed hesitant on the ball and the experiment discontinued at half-time. Six
Dan Burn A constant threat from dead balls, typically, could serve as another option for Stones in the backline instead of paired with him. A careless ball after the break nearly resulted in a goal from Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly A further confident performance from the 20-year-old following his debut versus another side. A teammate was unable to take the opportunity from a gorgeous touch behind the Albania defence. The left-back spot is his to lose already. 7/10
The newcomer A debut start with the national team. Slightly sloppy in possession however his inswinging corners were a threat. A useful pace-controller available to the boss to have against sides that sit back. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed challenge. 6/10
The midfielder Deliveries from corners and free-kicks created chances. Enjoyed room to move down the left flank only to be offside as the pass came in shooting positions. Given a deserved rest on the hour mark. 6/10
The star midfielder Functioned in a forward role on the right while also put in dirty work. Showed glimpses of brilliance but dragged an effort wide. Substituted towards the end by Rogers, a fellow player, following a yellow card. Seven
The winger Was presented with the team's best chance before halftime, his strike well saved from the Albanian keeper. With Quansah staying deep, he had to offer an outlet on the right although his balls into the box were hit and miss. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6
Harry Kane The decisive figure with his two more finishes for his country. The first a trademark close-range tap-in and his next a classy headed goal having drifted away off his defender. Now 32, his form is unwavering and England stand a real opportunity in future competitions with him up top. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to get into the game out wide. Had a good opening when set up by Bellingham however Strakosha kept it out. Rashford had a greater effect when substituted. Five
Substitutes
- Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and combined well with Kane in a natural spot, Six
- Saka (on for the winger 63) Missed opportunities but his corner provided the first goal, Six
- Rashford (for Bowen 75) Active upon introduction and provided Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery into the area, 7
- Anderson (for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable at this level, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star 84) Too brief a spell to make an impact, Six