Player Ratings: The Three Lions Triumph Secured by Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match
During a impressive performance, England clinched another win against Albania, with several players delivering standout displays during the match.
First-choice XI
The goalkeeper Not a save to make before the break but then called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. A sliding tackle on Qazim Laci highlighted his anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Challenged against Albania’s primary attacker through Hoxha. Operated in a central role to begin with but moved wider after Saka entered the fray. Seven
The defender Moved up the pitch on the ball, a familiar role previously. On occasion was too casual in possession with the tactic abandoned at half-time. 6/10
The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, as always, could serve as an alternative for Stones in the backline instead of his partner. A careless ball after the break almost led to the first goal from Albania. Six
The young full-back One more composed display from the 20-year-old following his debut against another side. A teammate was unable to take full advantage of a clever touch over the opposing backline. His position is his to lose already. 7
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning for his country. Somewhat sloppy when playing out however his inswinging corners caused problems. A useful tempo-setter available to the boss to call upon against teams who drop deep. Booked for a poorly timed foul. 6
The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and set-plays caused problems. Was given freedom to drift down the left flank but was in an offside position upon receiving with a chance to score. Awarded a well-earned substitution on the hour mark. Six
Jude Bellingham Operated in a high position on the right while also put in dirty work. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance and mishit an attempt wide. Substituted towards the end for a teammate, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Had the team's clearest opportunity before halftime, his shot well saved from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate staying deep, he was forced to provide width out wide but his crosses from wide areas varied in quality. Substituted late in the match. 6
The captain The match-winner with his 77th and 78th goals in an England shirt. The opener a classic close-range tap-in while the second an excellent finish with his head after peeling away from his marker. Aged 32, he’s only getting better with the national team stand a real opportunity in future competitions with him leading the line. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a good opening when set up from a teammate but the keeper denied him. His replacement made much more of influence after coming on. 5/10
Replacements
- Foden (for Rice 63) Looked lively and linked up effectively with Kane in a natural spot, 6/10
- Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner created the opener, Six
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Active after coming on and provided Kane’s second via an excellent ball to the back post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled so soon, Six
- Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to influence the game, Six