Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Win Secured by Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier

Throughout a commanding display, the English national team wrapped up another victory versus their opponents, featuring multiple players turning in memorable performances throughout the game.

Starting Lineup

Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to perform in the first half before forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. His sliding challenge against Qazim Laci demonstrated his anticipation. 6/10

Jarell Quansah Tested by the opposition's biggest threat in Hoxha. Played in a central role early on but moved wider once Saka came on. 7/10

John Stones Advanced up the pitch when in possession, something he's known for in the past. At times was too casual on the ball with the experiment discontinued at half-time. 6/10

Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, typically, could serve as another option for his teammate in defense rather than paired with him. A careless ball in the second half almost led to the first goal from Albania. 6/10

Nico O’Reilly Another composed performance by the youngster following his first cap versus another side. Saka failed to make full advantage of a gorgeous touch behind their defense. The role is his to lose at this stage. 7/10

The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. A bit careless in possession though his inswinging corners caused problems. A handy pace-controller for the manager to utilize against sides that sit back. Cautioned for a poorly timed tackle. Six

The midfielder Set-pieces from dead balls and set-plays caused problems. Had room to roam in left midfield yet found himself in an offside position as the pass came with a chance to score. Awarded a well-earned substitution after an hour. 6/10

Jude Bellingham Operated in a high role down the right and also contributed with the hard yards. Displayed glimpses of brilliance and dragged an attempt wide. Substituted towards the end for Rogers, his rival, after being booked. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's top opening in the opening period, his strike well saved by Thomas Strakosha. As Quansah staying deep, he was forced to offer an outlet down the right side but his crosses from the touchline were inconsistent. Taken off with 15 to go. 6

Harry Kane The decisive figure with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals for his country. The opener a typical poacher’s finish and the second a superb headed goal having drifted away off his defender. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and England are strong contenders next summer when he's in the team. 8

Eberechi Eze Struggled to make an impact from the left. Had a decent opportunity after being played in by the midfielder but Strakosha denied him. Rashford produced a bigger influence when substituted. 5

Substitutes

  • Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and combined effectively with Kane in more familiar role, 6/10
  • Bukayo Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece provided the opener, 6
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Energetic when brought on and set up the captain's brace via an excellent ball into the area, 7
  • Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Seems settled at this level, 6
  • Morgan Rogers (for the star 84) Insufficient minutes to affect things, Six
Anna Davila
Anna Davila

Elena is a seasoned mountaineer and outdoor writer with over 15 years of experience scaling peaks across Europe and Asia.