Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match

In a dominant display, the English national team wrapped up a further victory versus Albania, featuring a number of squad members delivering standout displays on the pitch.

First-choice Lineup

The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to make before the break until tested by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding intervention on Qazim Laci demonstrated sharp game intelligence. 6/10

Jarell Quansah Tested by the opposition's biggest threat through Hoxha. Started in a central role to begin with later drifted wider once a teammate entered the fray. Seven

The defender Moved forward with the ball at his feet, a familiar role previously. Sometimes seemed hesitant in possession and the approach abandoned by the interval. 6

The tall defender Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, typically, could serve as a replacement to his teammate in the backline instead of paired with him. A loose ball in the second half came close to the first goal for the visitors. 6

Nico O’Reilly One more confident performance from the rising star after his debut against Serbia. Saka failed to make the opportunity from an exquisite flick behind their defense. His position is firmly his so soon. 7

The newcomer His first start for his country. Slightly careless in possession though his dangerous corners were a threat. A useful pace-controller for the manager to have against sides that sit back. Booked after a reckless foul. 6/10

Declan Rice Deliveries from corners and free-kicks caused problems. Was given room to drift in left midfield yet found himself offside upon receiving with a chance to score. Awarded a well-earned rest on the hour mark. Six

Jude Bellingham Operated in an advanced spot down the right while also did plenty of dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance and scuffed an effort high. Replaced late on for a teammate, a fellow player, after being booked. Seven

The winger Was presented with England’s top opening in the opening period, his effort well saved from Thomas Strakosha. As Quansah holding position, he was forced to offer an outlet down the right side yet his deliveries into the box were hit and miss. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6

The captain The match-winner scoring seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth strikes in an England shirt. His first a trademark opportunist's goal while the second an excellent header following a clever run off his defender. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and England have every chance next summer when he's in the team. Eight

The attacker Found it tough to influence play on the left flank. Had a good opening after being played in by Bellingham yet the keeper kept it out. Rashford produced a bigger effect after coming on. 5

Bench Players

  • Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Looked lively and combined seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, 6
  • Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece provided the opener, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Active after coming on and provided the second goal with superb cross to the far post, 7/10
  • Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Looks established so soon, Six
  • Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Not enough time to make an impact, Six
Kathryn Martinez
Kathryn Martinez

A passionate football analyst with over a decade of experience covering European leagues and Champions League dynamics.