Player Assessments: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match

In a commanding performance, the English national team wrapped up another victory versus Albania, with a number of squad members producing notable displays during the match.

Starting XI

Dean Henderson Had little to do to make during the opening 45 until tested by an opponent's bent shot. A sliding challenge against Qazim Laci highlighted excellent anticipation. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Challenged by Albania’s primary attacker in their forward. Operated in a central role initially later drifted out wide once a teammate was introduced. 7/10

The defender Moved into midfield on the ball, as he has done previously. At times seemed hesitant when carrying play with the experiment abandoned by the interval. 6

The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, per usual, but may be an alternative for his teammate in defense rather than alongside him. A loose distribution after the break came close to the first goal for Albania. 6/10

Nico O’Reilly One more composed showing by the rising star after his first cap against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on full advantage of a gorgeous touch behind their defense. His position is firmly his at this stage. 7/10

The newcomer A debut start with the national team. A bit loose when playing out however his inswinging set-pieces posed a danger. A useful pace-controller available to the manager to call upon against defensive opponents. Cautioned after a reckless challenge. 6

Declan Rice Set-pieces from dead balls and free-kicks created chances. Was given license to move down the left flank only to be in an offside position as the pass came in front of goal. Granted a deserved break on the hour mark. 6/10

The star midfielder Functioned in a high spot out wide and also contributed with the hard yards. Demonstrated moments of class and scuffed a shot wide. Replaced late on for a teammate, his competition, after being booked. 7/10

The winger Had the team's top opening in the opening period, his effort smartly stopped from the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah hanging back, he was forced to offer an outlet on the right but his crosses into the box were inconsistent. Substituted with 15 to go. Six

Harry Kane The decisive figure with his two more goals in an England shirt. His first a classic opportunist's goal and the second a classy headed goal following a clever run from his marker. Now 32, his form is unwavering and the side stand a real opportunity in future competitions with him leading the line. 8

Eberechi Eze Found it tough to get into the game from the left. Had a good opening after being played in by Bellingham however the keeper denied him. His replacement had a greater influence after coming on. 5

Bench Players

  • Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright and combined well with Kane in a preferred position, 6/10
  • Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities although his set-piece created the first goal, 6
  • Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Active upon introduction assisting Kane’s second with superb cross to the back post, 7/10
  • Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled already, Six
  • Rogers (for the star 84) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, Six
Misty Schneider DDS
Misty Schneider DDS

A tech enthusiast and digital strategist with over a decade of experience in software development and innovation consulting.