Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match

In a commanding showing, England clinched another win versus Albania, featuring a number of players delivering standout displays throughout the game.

First-choice Eleven

The goalkeeper Had little to do to make in the first half but then tested from an opponent's curling effort. A sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker highlighted his reading of the game. 6/10

Jarell Quansah Tested against the opposition's primary attacker through Hoxha. Started more centrally early on later drifted to the flank once a teammate came on. Seven

The defender Pushed up the pitch when in possession, something he's known for before. On occasion lacked urgency when carrying play with the experiment discontinued after the break. 6

Dan Burn A nuisance from dead balls, as always, could serve as a replacement for Stones at the back instead of his partner. A loose ball later in the match almost led to the first goal for Albania. 6

The young full-back One more composed performance from the youngster after his initial appearance versus another side. A teammate failed to make the most of an exquisite backheel behind their defense. The left-back spot is firmly his so soon. Seven

Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. Slightly careless on the ball but his dangerous set-pieces caused problems. An effective tempo-setter available to the coach to utilize against teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a poorly timed challenge. 6

Declan Rice Deliveries from dead balls and free kicks created chances. Was given freedom to drift down the left flank yet found himself offside as the pass came in shooting positions. Given a merited rest around the 60-minute point. Six

The star midfielder Played in an advanced spot out wide and also put in dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but dragged an attempt high. Substituted late on by a teammate, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Had the team's best chance of the first half, his shot well saved from the Albanian keeper. As Quansah hanging back, he had to provide width down the right side but his crosses from the touchline were hit and miss. Substituted late in the match. 6

The captain The match-winner netting two more goals for his country. The first a trademark opportunist's goal and his next an excellent finish with his head after peeling away off his defender. At 32, his form is unwavering and the side are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. Eight

The attacker Struggled to make an impact out wide. Had a decent opportunity following a pass by Bellingham however the keeper kept it out. Rashford had a greater an impact in his place. 5/10

Replacements

  • Phil Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Looked lively and combined well with Kane in a preferred position, 6
  • Bukayo Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities although his set-piece led to the first goal, 6
  • Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Active after coming on and provided Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the far post, 7/10
  • Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Looks established already, 6/10
  • Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to influence the game, Six
Pedro Vazquez
Pedro Vazquez

A digital strategist and front-end developer with over 8 years of experience, passionate about creating user-centric web solutions.