Squad Ratings: England Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifier

In a dominant performance, the English national team secured another victory versus Albania, featuring multiple players producing memorable performances throughout the game.

Starting XI

The goalkeeper Had little to do to make in the first half before tested by an opponent's curling effort. One well-timed sliding intervention on Qazim Laci highlighted excellent game intelligence. 6/10

The debutant Challenged against the opposition's biggest threat through their forward. Started through the middle initially but moved to the flank once Saka came on. 7/10

The defender Pushed up the pitch with the ball at his feet, as he has done before. At times lacked urgency in possession and the tactic abandoned at half-time. 6/10

Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, per usual, but may be an alternative for Stones at the back as opposed to his partner. A careless distribution after the break almost led to a goal from Albania. 6/10

Nico O’Reilly A further composed display from the 20-year-old following his initial appearance versus another side. A teammate did not capitalize on the opportunity from an exquisite flick over their defense. The role is his to lose so soon. 7/10

Adam Wharton A debut start in an England shirt. Slightly sloppy on the ball though his inswinging set-pieces caused problems. A handy game manager available to the coach to have versus defensive opponents. Shown a yellow after a reckless tackle. Six

Declan Rice Crosses from corners and set-plays created chances. Was given room to roam on the left yet found himself offside upon receiving with a chance to score. Granted a well-earned break around the 60-minute point. Six

Jude Bellingham Played in a forward position down the right while also did plenty of the hard yards. Displayed flashes of quality and scuffed a shot high. Withdrawn towards the end by Rogers, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. 7

The winger Was presented with the team's top opening before halftime, his strike well saved from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate staying deep, he was forced to stretch the play on the right yet his deliveries into the box were hit and miss. Taken off with 15 to go. 6

Harry Kane The match-winner scoring 77th and 78th goals in an England shirt. The opener a typical close-range tap-in and the second a classy header having drifted away away from the opposition. At 32, he continues to improve with the national team stand a real opportunity next summer with him leading the line. 8/10

The attacker Found it tough to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a good opening following a pass by the midfielder yet Strakosha denied him. His replacement produced a bigger effect when substituted. Five

Replacements

  • Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, 6
  • Bukayo Saka (on for Eze 63) Failed to convert yet his delivery provided the opener, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Energetic after coming on and provided the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery into the area, 7/10
  • Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable so soon, 6/10
  • Rogers (for the star 84) Not enough time to affect things, Six
Laura Joseph
Laura Joseph

A passionate esports journalist with over a decade of experience covering competitive gaming and industry trends.