Player Ratings: The Three Lions Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match
During a dominant showing, England clinched a further victory versus Albania, featuring several players producing notable performances throughout the game.
Starting XI
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to perform before the break but then forced to intervene by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. A sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker highlighted his game intelligence. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Examined against the opposition's biggest threat through Hoxha. Operated through the middle to begin with but moved wider once Saka came on. 7
The defender Advanced into midfield with the ball at his feet, something he's known for before. At times lacked urgency on the ball and the tactic discontinued by the interval. 6
The tall defender Always dangerous at set pieces, as always, could serve as an alternative to his teammate in defense as opposed to his partner. One wayward ball later in the match came close to the first goal from Albania. Six
Nico O’Reilly A further confident display from the rising star after his initial appearance against Serbia. A teammate failed to make the opportunity from an exquisite flick over the opposing backline. His position is firmly his already. 7/10
The newcomer A debut start with the national team. Somewhat loose when playing out however his inswinging set-pieces were a threat. A useful pace-controller for the boss to call upon against teams who drop deep. Booked for a poorly timed challenge. 6
Declan Rice Deliveries on corner kicks and free kicks were dangerous. Was given license to roam down the left flank but was in an offside position as the pass came with a chance to score. Given a deserved break on the hour mark. 6/10
The star midfielder Played in a forward spot out wide and also contributed with dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but scuffed a shot over. Substituted towards the end for Rogers, his competition, following a yellow card. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s top opening in the opening period, his shot well saved from the opposing goalkeeper. As a teammate hanging back, he was forced to stretch the play down the right side but his crosses into the box were hit and miss. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. 6
The captain The decisive figure netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes in an England shirt. His first a typical poacher’s finish while the second a superb headed goal following a clever run off his defender. Now 32, he continues to improve and the side are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. 8
The attacker Found it tough to get into the game out wide. Was presented with a good opening when set up by the midfielder however Strakosha denied him. His replacement made much more of an impact in his place. 5/10
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright and combined effectively with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece led to the breakthrough, 6
- Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Energetic upon introduction and provided the captain's brace with superb cross to the far post, Seven
- Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established so soon, Six
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to make an impact, Six