Player Evaluations: England Triumph Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match

Throughout a commanding performance, the English national team clinched one more triumph versus Albania, with multiple players turning in memorable displays during the match.

First-choice Lineup

The goalkeeper Had little to do to make before the break before tested from an opponent's curled attempt. A sliding intervention against Qazim Laci demonstrated excellent reading of the game. 6/10

The debutant Tested by Albania’s main danger through Hoxha. Operated in a central role initially but moved out wide after a teammate was introduced. Seven

John Stones Moved up the pitch when in possession, as he has done in the past. At times seemed hesitant when carrying play with the tactic was shelved by the interval. 6/10

The tall defender A nuisance from dead balls, as always, could serve as a replacement to his teammate at the back rather than alongside him. A loose pass later in the match nearly resulted in the first goal for Albania. 6

The young full-back Another confident performance by the 20-year-old after his initial appearance against another side. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from a clever flick behind their defense. His position looks secure so soon. 7

Adam Wharton A debut start in an England shirt. Slightly sloppy in possession however his inswinging deliveries caused problems. A useful pace-controller for the boss to utilize against defensive opponents. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed foul. Six

Declan Rice Set-pieces from dead balls and free kicks created chances. Enjoyed room to roam down the left flank only to be offside upon receiving in shooting positions. Awarded a deserved substitution around the 60-minute point. 6

Jude Bellingham Operated in a high position on the right while also contributed with dirty work. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance and dragged an attempt high. Withdrawn in the closing stages for a teammate, his rival, after receiving a caution. Seven

Jarrod Bowen Had England’s best chance of the first half, his effort smartly stopped from Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah hanging back, it fell to him to provide width down the right side but his crosses from the touchline were inconsistent. Substituted late in the match. 6

Harry Kane The difference-maker scoring 77th and 78th finishes at international level. The first a trademark opportunist's goal and the second a classy finish with his head after peeling away away from the opposition. At 32, his form is unwavering with the national team are strong contenders next summer with him up top. Eight

Eberechi Eze Found it tough to influence play on the left flank. Had a decent opportunity following a pass by Bellingham however the keeper denied him. His replacement produced a bigger effect when substituted. 5

Bench Players

  • Foden (replacing Rice 63) Looked lively and combined effectively with the striker in a natural spot, Six
  • Bukayo Saka (on for Eze 63) Failed to convert but his corner led to the breakthrough, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Active when brought on and provided the second goal via an excellent ball into the area, Seven
  • Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable at this level, Six
  • Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6/10
Christie Lutz
Christie Lutz

Automotive journalist with over a decade of experience covering luxury vehicles and industry innovations.