Squad Evaluations: England Win Secured by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier

In a impressive performance, the English national team clinched a further triumph versus their opponents, with several players delivering memorable displays on the pitch.

First-choice Eleven

Dean Henderson Had little to do to make in the first half before called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding intervention against Qazim Laci demonstrated sharp reading of the game. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Challenged by Albania’s main danger through Hoxha. Played more centrally early on later drifted out wide after Saka came on. 7/10

The defender Pushed into midfield when in possession, as he has done before. At times lacked urgency when carrying play with the experiment was shelved after the break. 6/10

The tall defender Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, as always, could serve as another option for Stones at the back instead of paired with him. A careless distribution later in the match almost led to an opener for the visitors. 6/10

The young full-back One more assured display from the 20-year-old after his initial appearance against Serbia. Saka failed to make the most of a gorgeous flick over the opposing backline. The left-back spot is his to lose at this stage. 7

The newcomer A debut start with the national team. Somewhat careless when playing out but his dangerous set-pieces were a threat. A handy game manager available to the manager to have versus sides that sit back. Cautioned after a reckless foul. Six

Declan Rice Deliveries from corners and free-kicks caused problems. Enjoyed freedom to roam down the left flank only to be in an offside position when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Awarded a deserved break on the hour mark. 6

The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced role on the right and contributed with the hard yards. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but mishit an effort over. Substituted late on for Rogers, a fellow player, after being booked. Seven

The winger Had England’s best chance before halftime, his strike well saved by the opposing goalkeeper. With a teammate staying deep, it fell to him to stretch the play down the right side although his balls from wide areas varied in quality. Taken off late in the match. Six

Harry Kane The difference-maker scoring seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes for his country. His first a classic poacher’s finish and his next a classy headed goal having drifted away off his defender. Now 32, his form is unwavering with the national team are strong contenders in future competitions with him leading the line. 8/10

Eberechi Eze Found it tough to make an impact from the left. Had a presentable chance after being played in by Bellingham however the keeper made the save. His replacement had a greater effect after coming on. Five

Replacements

  • Phil Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Looked lively and linked up well with Kane in more familiar role, 6/10
  • Saka (for the winger 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece created the opener, 6
  • Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Lively upon introduction assisting the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the far post, Seven
  • Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Looks established already, 6/10
  • Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6/10
Terry Richards
Terry Richards

A Berlin-based tech enthusiast and digital strategist with over a decade of experience in web development and creative content.