Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Win Secured by Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match

Throughout a dominant display, the English national team secured one more win against Albania, featuring several players delivering notable performances throughout the game.

First-choice Lineup

The goalkeeper Had little to do to make before the break until called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. One well-timed sliding tackle on Qazim Laci demonstrated excellent reading of the game. 6/10

The debutant Challenged by Albania’s biggest threat through Hoxha. Operated more centrally to begin with then shifted to the flank once Saka was introduced. 7/10

John Stones Pushed up the pitch with the ball at his feet, as he has done before. Sometimes lacked urgency on the ball and the tactic was shelved by the interval. Six

Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, per usual, could serve as another option for Stones in defense as opposed to his partner. One wayward distribution after the break nearly resulted in a goal for Albania. 6/10

Nico O’Reilly One more confident showing from the youngster following his initial appearance against another side. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from an exquisite backheel behind the opposing backline. The role looks secure at this stage. 7/10

Adam Wharton His maiden beginning with the national team. A bit sloppy on the ball though his whipped set-pieces caused problems. An effective pace-controller for the boss to have against teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a poorly timed challenge. Six

The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and set-plays created chances. Was given freedom to move down the left flank yet found himself in an offside position upon receiving in front of goal. Granted a well-earned rest on the hour mark. Six

Jude Bellingham Operated in an advanced role on the right while also contributed with the hard yards. Showed moments of class but dragged an attempt high. Substituted in the closing stages by Rogers, his competition, following a yellow card. Seven

The winger Had England’s clearest opportunity of the first half, his effort excellently kept out by the opposing goalkeeper. As Quansah staying deep, it fell to him to offer an outlet on the right yet his deliveries from the touchline were inconsistent. Replaced with 15 to go. 6/10

The captain The decisive figure with his two more finishes in an England shirt. The opener a typical poacher’s finish and his next an excellent finish with his head having drifted away from his marker. At 32, his form is unwavering and the side have every chance in future competitions with him leading the line. 8

The attacker Found it tough to get into the game from the left. Was presented with a good opening when set up by Bellingham yet the keeper denied him. Rashford made much more of effect after coming on. 5

Replacements

  • Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively connecting seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, 6/10
  • Bukayo Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities yet his delivery provided the opener, 6/10
  • Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Active after coming on and provided the captain's brace with superb cross into the area, 7/10
  • Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, 6
  • Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, Six
Brian Johnson
Brian Johnson

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