Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Win Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match
Throughout a commanding display, the English national team secured one more win versus Albania, featuring several squad members delivering memorable performances during the match.
First-choice Eleven
Dean Henderson Not a save required during the opening 45 before called into action from an opponent's curling effort. One well-timed sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker demonstrated sharp anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined against Albania’s primary attacker in Hoxha. Operated through the middle early on then shifted out wide after Saka was introduced. 7
John Stones Moved up the pitch on the ball, something he's known for in the past. Sometimes seemed hesitant on the ball with the approach abandoned after the break. 6/10
Dan Burn Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be a replacement to his teammate in defense rather than alongside him. One wayward pass after the break came close to an opener for Albania. Six
Nico O’Reilly A further assured showing by the 20-year-old following his initial appearance versus another side. Saka was unable to take the opportunity from an exquisite backheel over their defense. The left-back spot is his to lose so soon. 7/10
The newcomer His first start with the national team. Somewhat careless when playing out though his whipped corners caused problems. An effective game manager for the manager to utilize versus defensive opponents. Cautioned for a rash tackle. 6/10
The midfielder Set-pieces on corner kicks and free kicks created chances. Was given freedom to roam down the left flank yet found himself offside as the pass came with a chance to score. Granted a well-earned substitution after an hour. 6/10
Jude Bellingham Played in a high role down the right and contributed with dirty work. Showed glimpses of brilliance but dragged a shot over. Substituted late on for Rogers, a fellow player, after being booked. 7/10
The winger Had the team's best chance before halftime, his strike smartly stopped by the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah hanging back, he was forced to stretch the play down the right side but his crosses from the touchline varied in quality. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6
The captain The difference-maker scoring two more strikes at international level. The opener a typical close-range tap-in and the second a classy finish with his head following a clever run from his marker. At 32, he’s only getting better with the national team are strong contenders in future competitions with him leading the line. Eight
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to make an impact on the left flank. Had a good opening following a pass from a teammate but Strakosha denied him. His replacement made much more of influence after coming on. 5/10
Bench Players
- Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Was bright and combined well with the striker in more familiar role, 6
- Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities yet his delivery created the opener, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Active upon introduction and set up Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7/10
- Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled at this level, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to affect things, 6/10