Squad Ratings: England Win Secured by Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match

Throughout a commanding display, England clinched one more victory against their opponents, featuring several squad members turning in notable displays on the pitch.

Starting Lineup

Dean Henderson Was rarely tested required before the break but then called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker showed his game intelligence. 6/10

The debutant Tested by Albania’s main danger in their forward. Started in a central role initially then shifted wider once Saka was introduced. Seven

John Stones Pushed into midfield when in possession, as he has done before. Sometimes lacked urgency when carrying play with the approach abandoned after the break. 6/10

Dan Burn A constant threat at set pieces, typically, could serve as another option to Stones in defense rather than paired with him. One wayward distribution after the break almost led to the first goal from the visitors. Six

Nico O’Reilly Another confident performance from the 20-year-old after his first cap against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the most of a clever flick behind the Albania defence. His position is firmly his so soon. 7

Adam Wharton A debut start for his country. Slightly careless on the ball but his inswinging corners were a threat. An effective pace-controller for the manager to call upon against defensive opponents. Cautioned for a poorly timed tackle. 6

Declan Rice Crosses on corner kicks and free-kicks created chances. Had freedom to roam down the left flank but was in an offside position when the ball arrived in front of goal. Given a merited break after an hour. Six

Jude Bellingham Operated in a high spot out wide and put in the hard yards. Displayed flashes of quality and mishit a shot high. Substituted late on by Rogers, his competition, after being booked. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Had the team's best chance of the first half, his shot well saved by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah holding position, he had to stretch the play out wide although his balls from wide areas were inconsistent. Substituted late in the match. 6

Harry Kane The match-winner with his 77th and 78th finishes in an England shirt. The first a trademark poacher’s finish and the second a classy finish with his head having drifted away from his marker. Now 32, he continues to improve with the national team are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. 8

The attacker Found it tough to make an impact on the left flank. Was presented with a good opening after being played in from a teammate yet the keeper denied him. Rashford had a greater influence when substituted. 5

Bench Players

  • Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Appeared sharp connecting well with Kane in a preferred position, 6/10
  • Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner led to the breakthrough, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Active when brought on and set up Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
  • Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, 6/10
  • Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to affect things, Six
Jose Huynh
Jose Huynh

A technology strategist with over a decade of experience in digital innovation and business transformation, passionate about making tech accessible.