Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Win Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match
During a impressive showing, the English national team clinched a further victory against Albania, with a number of players producing memorable performances during the match.
First-choice Lineup
The goalkeeper Not a save to make in the first half until forced to intervene by Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. His sliding intervention on Qazim Laci highlighted sharp anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Tested by Albania’s biggest threat through their forward. Operated through the middle initially but moved wider after a teammate entered the fray. 7/10
The defender Pushed into midfield when in possession, a familiar role before. On occasion lacked urgency in possession and the experiment discontinued by the interval. 6/10
The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, typically, could serve as an alternative for his teammate at the back instead of his partner. A loose pass after the break almost led to the first goal for the visitors. Six
The young full-back One more composed showing from the rising star after his initial appearance versus another side. A teammate failed to make the most of an exquisite backheel over the opposing backline. His position looks secure so soon. 7/10
The newcomer A debut start for his country. A bit sloppy in possession however his whipped corners caused problems. An effective game manager available to the coach to call upon against sides that sit back. Cautioned for a poorly timed tackle. 6/10
Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and set-plays were dangerous. Had license to move down the left flank yet found himself offside when the ball arrived in front of goal. Given a deserved substitution on the hour mark. 6/10
The star midfielder Played in a forward role down the right and also put in dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but dragged a shot over. Withdrawn in the closing stages by a teammate, his rival, after being booked. Seven
The winger Had the team's best chance in the opening period, his effort well saved from the Albanian keeper. With Quansah staying deep, it fell to him to provide width out wide but his crosses from the touchline were hit and miss. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. 6/10
Harry Kane The match-winner scoring two more strikes at international level. The opener a trademark poacher’s finish and his next a superb headed goal having drifted away from his marker. Now 32, his form is unwavering and the side are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to influence play from the left. Was presented with a presentable chance following a pass by Bellingham however Strakosha made the save. His replacement had a greater influence when substituted. 5/10
Bench Players
- Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and linked up seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, 6
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert yet his delivery provided the breakthrough, 6/10
- Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Lively upon introduction and set up Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery into the area, Seven
- Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, 6/10
- Rogers (replacing the star 84) Not enough time to influence the game, 6/10