Player Assessments: England Victory Sealed by Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
Throughout a dominant performance, the English national team clinched a further triumph against their opponents, featuring multiple squad members delivering standout performances during the match.
Starting XI
The goalkeeper Had little to do to make during the opening 45 but then forced to intervene from an opponent's bent shot. One well-timed sliding intervention on an Albanian attacker showed sharp game intelligence. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Challenged against the opposition's main danger through their forward. Started through the middle early on later drifted out wide after Saka was introduced. Seven
The defender Moved forward when in possession, something he's known for in the past. On occasion seemed hesitant on the ball with the experiment abandoned by the interval. 6
The tall defender A nuisance from dead balls, as always, perhaps is an alternative for his teammate in the backline rather than his partner. A loose ball later in the match nearly resulted in a goal for the visitors. Six
The young full-back Another assured display from the rising star after his first cap versus Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on full advantage of a clever backheel behind the Albania defence. The left-back spot looks secure already. 7
Adam Wharton A debut start in an England shirt. Somewhat careless when playing out though his dangerous set-pieces caused problems. A useful game manager for the coach to utilize against sides that sit back. Booked for a rash foul. 6/10
Declan Rice Crosses on corner kicks and free-kicks were dangerous. Enjoyed license to drift in left midfield yet found himself in an offside position as the pass came in shooting positions. Awarded a well-earned substitution after an hour. 6/10
Jude Bellingham Played in an advanced role down the right and contributed with defensive duties. Showed moments of class and dragged an attempt high. Substituted in the closing stages for Rogers, his rival, after being booked. 7/10
The winger Had England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his effort well saved by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah staying deep, he had to stretch the play out wide but his crosses into the box varied in quality. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6/10
Harry Kane The match-winner scoring seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes for his country. The opener a classic opportunist's goal and the second a classy finish with his head having drifted away off his defender. Aged 32, he continues to improve and the side stand a real opportunity next summer with him leading the line. 8/10
The attacker Struggled to influence play from the left. Was presented with a presentable chance following a pass from a teammate but the keeper made the save. His replacement had a greater effect when substituted. 5
Substitutes
- Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright connecting effectively with Kane in a preferred position, 6/10
- Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities yet his delivery created the first goal, Six
- Rashford (for Bowen 75) Active after coming on assisting Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established so soon, Six
- Rogers (replacing the star 84) Not enough time to influence the game, 6/10