Player Ratings: England Win Sealed by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match

Throughout a impressive performance, England clinched a further win against their opponents, with multiple players turning in notable performances on the pitch.

First-choice Eleven

The goalkeeper Was rarely tested required during the opening 45 before called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. His sliding challenge on Qazim Laci showed excellent game intelligence. Six out of ten

The debutant Tested against Albania’s primary attacker in Hoxha. Started through the middle early on later drifted to the flank after a teammate came on. Seven

John Stones Moved forward with the ball at his feet, as he has done previously. On occasion lacked urgency in possession with the tactic abandoned after the break. Six

The tall defender A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, per usual, perhaps is an alternative to his teammate at the back as opposed to paired with him. A loose ball after the break almost led to an opener from Albania. 6

Nico O’Reilly Another confident performance by the youngster following his first cap versus another side. Saka failed to make full advantage of a clever backheel behind the Albania defence. The role is firmly his so soon. 7

Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. Somewhat careless when playing out however his whipped set-pieces caused problems. An effective pace-controller available to the coach to utilize against teams who drop deep. Cautioned after a reckless tackle. Six

Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and free-kicks were dangerous. Was given freedom to drift down the left flank yet found himself offside when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Granted a well-earned break after an hour. 6

The star midfielder Played in a forward spot on the right and also did plenty of the hard yards. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but dragged an attempt wide. Replaced late on for a teammate, his rival, following a yellow card. 7

Jarrod Bowen Had England’s clearest opportunity of the first half, his effort smartly stopped by the Albanian keeper. As a teammate holding position, he had to stretch the play out wide although his balls from the touchline were hit and miss. Replaced late in the match. 6/10

Harry Kane The difference-maker scoring seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals for his country. The opener a typical opportunist's goal and the second an excellent headed goal having drifted away away from the opposition. At 32, he’s only getting better with the national team have every chance in future competitions with him leading the line. 8

The attacker Struggled to influence play on the left flank. Had a decent opportunity after being played in from a teammate but Strakosha kept it out. His replacement had a greater influence after coming on. Five

Replacements

  • Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively connecting seamlessly with the striker in a natural spot, Six
  • Bukayo Saka (for Eze 63) Missed opportunities but his corner led to the breakthrough, 6/10
  • Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Active when brought on and provided the second goal via an excellent ball to the far post, 7/10
  • Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Seems settled so soon, 6
  • Morgan Rogers (replacing Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6
Tina Thompson
Tina Thompson

A tech strategist with over 15 years in IT consulting, specializing in digital transformation and cybersecurity for enterprises.