Squad Evaluations: England Win Sealed by Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match

During a commanding showing, the English national team secured a further triumph versus Albania, with several squad members delivering standout performances throughout the game.

Starting Lineup

The goalkeeper Not a save required before the break before called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. A sliding tackle against Qazim Laci highlighted sharp reading of the game. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Challenged against the opposition's main danger through their forward. Played in a central role early on then shifted wider once Saka came on. Seven

The defender Pushed up the pitch on the ball, as he has done in the past. On occasion was too casual in possession and the experiment discontinued after the break. 6

Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, per usual, could serve as another option for his teammate in defense as opposed to paired with him. A careless distribution after the break nearly resulted in a goal for Albania. Six

Nico O’Reilly One more confident showing by the 20-year-old following his initial appearance against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from an exquisite flick behind their defense. His position is his to lose so soon. 7/10

Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. A bit sloppy in possession however his dangerous corners caused problems. A useful pace-controller for the coach to call upon versus sides that sit back. Shown a yellow after a reckless tackle. 6

Declan Rice Crosses on corner kicks and free kicks were dangerous. Had room to move in left midfield yet found himself offside as the pass came in shooting positions. Granted a well-earned rest around the 60-minute point. Six

Jude Bellingham Operated in a forward role down the right and contributed with defensive duties. Displayed flashes of quality but dragged an attempt over. Substituted towards the end by Rogers, his rival, after being booked. 7

The winger Had the team's clearest opportunity of the first half, his shot excellently kept out by the Albanian keeper. As a teammate holding position, he had to offer an outlet down the right side yet his deliveries into the box varied in quality. Substituted with 15 to go. 6

Harry Kane The match-winner netting 77th and 78th finishes for his country. The opener a typical opportunist's goal and his next a classy headed goal having drifted away off his defender. Aged 32, his form is unwavering with the national team stand a real opportunity in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. 8

Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to get into the game from the left. Had a presentable chance following a pass by the midfielder however the keeper kept it out. Rashford had a greater effect when substituted. 5/10

Substitutes

  • Foden (for Rice 63) Looked lively and combined effectively with Kane in more familiar role, Six
  • Saka (for Eze 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece led to the opener, 6
  • Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Energetic after coming on and set up the second goal with superb cross to the far post, Seven
  • Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, Six
  • Rogers (for the star 84) Not enough time to influence the game, Six
Roger Gomez
Roger Gomez

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