Squad Assessments: England Win Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifier

Throughout a commanding showing, the English national team clinched a further win versus Albania, featuring a number of players producing notable performances on the pitch.

Starting Lineup

The goalkeeper Not a save required during the opening 45 before called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. One well-timed sliding intervention against an Albanian attacker highlighted sharp reading of the game. Six out of ten

The debutant Tested against Albania’s main danger through their forward. Started through the middle initially then shifted to the flank once a teammate entered the fray. 7

The defender Moved into midfield when in possession, something he's known for previously. At times lacked urgency on the ball and the tactic was shelved by the interval. 6/10

Dan Burn A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, typically, perhaps is a replacement for Stones in defense rather than alongside him. A loose distribution in the second half almost led to the first goal for the visitors. 6

Nico O’Reilly One more composed performance by the youngster following his first cap against another side. Saka failed to make full advantage of an exquisite backheel behind the Albania defence. The left-back spot looks secure at this stage. 7

The newcomer A debut start with the national team. Slightly sloppy when playing out but his inswinging set-pieces were a threat. A handy tempo-setter for the coach to call upon against teams who drop deep. Booked for a poorly timed challenge. 6/10

Declan Rice Crosses on corner kicks and free-kicks caused problems. Enjoyed license to drift in left midfield but was in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Granted a deserved rest around the 60-minute point. 6

Jude Bellingham Played in a forward position out wide and contributed with dirty work. Showed moments of class but scuffed an attempt over. Replaced late on for Rogers, his rival, after being booked. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's top opening of the first half, his effort excellently kept out by Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate staying deep, he was forced to offer an outlet on the right although his balls into the box were hit and miss. Taken off with 15 to go. 6

The captain The match-winner netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals in an England shirt. The opener a trademark close-range tap-in while the second an excellent header following a clever run away from the opposition. Now 32, his form is unwavering and England are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. Eight

The attacker Found it tough to make an impact from the left. Had a good opening when set up by Bellingham but the keeper kept it out. Rashford had a greater influence when substituted. 5/10

Substitutes

  • Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, 6/10
  • Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece provided the breakthrough, 6/10
  • Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Active upon introduction assisting the second goal via an excellent ball into the area, 7
  • Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Looks established so soon, Six
  • Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6
George Schaefer
George Schaefer

A seasoned gaming analyst with over a decade of experience in the online casino industry, specializing in slot game mechanics and player strategies.