Player Ratings: England Victory Sealed by Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match
During a commanding showing, the English national team secured one more victory against their opponents, with several squad members delivering standout displays throughout the game.
First-choice Lineup
The goalkeeper Not a save required in the first half before tested by an opponent's curled attempt. A sliding intervention against Qazim Laci highlighted sharp game intelligence. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined against the opposition's biggest threat in Hoxha. Played in a central role early on then shifted to the flank after Saka was introduced. 7/10
The defender Moved forward on the ball, a familiar role previously. On occasion seemed hesitant in possession and the tactic abandoned after the break. 6/10
The tall defender Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, as always, perhaps is another option to his teammate in the backline rather than alongside him. A careless pass after the break nearly resulted in a goal for Albania. 6/10
The young full-back Another assured display by the youngster following his first cap versus another side. Saka did not capitalize on the most of a clever flick over the opposing backline. The role looks secure so soon. 7
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning with the national team. A bit sloppy in possession however his whipped set-pieces caused problems. An effective tempo-setter for the coach to utilize against defensive opponents. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed tackle. 6
The midfielder Deliveries on corner kicks and free kicks caused problems. Had license to drift in left midfield only to be offside upon receiving with a chance to score. Granted a well-earned break around the 60-minute point. 6
The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced spot on the right and also contributed with defensive duties. Displayed flashes of quality and mishit an effort over. Withdrawn in the closing stages by Rogers, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7
Jarrod Bowen Had the team's best chance in the opening period, his strike well saved from the Albanian keeper. With Quansah staying deep, he had to stretch the play on the right but his crosses into the box varied in quality. Substituted with 15 to go. 6/10
Harry Kane The match-winner scoring two more strikes for his country. The opener a trademark opportunist's goal and his next a superb headed goal having drifted away away from the opposition. At 32, he’s only getting better and England are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Struggled to influence play on the left flank. Had a presentable chance when set up by the midfielder however the keeper kept it out. His replacement produced a bigger effect in his place. 5
Replacements
- Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up effectively with Kane in more familiar role, 6
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger 63) Failed to convert but his corner led to the breakthrough, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Energetic after coming on and set up the second goal with a brilliant delivery into the area, 7
- Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable at this level, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star 84) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6/10