Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
Throughout a impressive showing, England clinched a further victory versus their opponents, featuring several squad members turning in notable performances on the pitch.
Starting XI
The goalkeeper Was rarely tested required in the first half until called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding tackle against Qazim Laci showed his reading of the game. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Tested against the opposition's primary attacker in Hoxha. Started more centrally early on later drifted out wide after a teammate came on. Seven
The defender Pushed forward when in possession, a familiar role previously. Sometimes lacked urgency on the ball and the tactic abandoned after the break. Six
The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, as always, but may be an alternative for his teammate in defense as opposed to paired with him. A loose ball in the second half came close to an opener from Albania. Six
Nico O’Reilly Another assured display from the youngster after his debut versus Serbia. Saka was unable to take the most of a gorgeous touch behind their defense. His position looks secure at this stage. 7/10
The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. Somewhat careless on the ball however his inswinging corners caused problems. An effective game manager available to the coach to have versus teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow for a rash challenge. Six
Declan Rice Set-pieces from dead balls and free kicks created chances. Was given room to move down the left flank only to be in an offside position when the ball arrived in front of goal. Awarded a merited substitution after an hour. 6/10
The star midfielder Played in a forward role out wide and also contributed with defensive duties. Demonstrated moments of class but mishit an attempt high. Withdrawn towards the end for a teammate, his competition, following a yellow card. Seven
The winger Was presented with England’s top opening before halftime, his shot smartly stopped from the Albanian keeper. With Quansah staying deep, it fell to him to offer an outlet down the right side although his balls into the box were hit and miss. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. 6/10
Harry Kane The match-winner scoring 77th and 78th goals in an England shirt. His first a classic close-range tap-in and the second an excellent headed goal following a clever run from his marker. At 32, he’s only getting better and the side are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him up top. Eight
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to get into the game out wide. Had a presentable chance after being played in by Bellingham yet Strakosha denied him. Rashford made much more of an impact when substituted. 5/10
Replacements
- Foden (replacing Rice 63) Looked lively and linked up effectively with Kane in a natural spot, Six
- Bukayo Saka (for Eze 63) Missed opportunities although his set-piece created the breakthrough, 6/10
- Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Energetic when brought on and set up the second goal via an excellent ball to the far post, 7
- Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled already, Six
- Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to make an impact, Six