Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Win Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier

In a dominant performance, the English national team secured one more victory versus their opponents, featuring multiple players producing standout displays throughout the game.

First-choice Eleven

Dean Henderson Not a save required before the break until called into action by an opponent's curled attempt. One well-timed sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker showed sharp reading of the game. 6/10

Jarell Quansah Tested against Albania’s main danger in Hoxha. Started through the middle initially later drifted out wide after Saka was introduced. 7/10

The defender Moved up the pitch with the ball at his feet, something he's known for in the past. At times seemed hesitant on the ball with the tactic discontinued after the break. Six

Dan Burn A constant threat from dead balls, typically, but may be another option for Stones in defense as opposed to his partner. A loose distribution later in the match came close to the first goal from the visitors. 6

Nico O’Reilly A further confident showing from the rising star following his initial appearance versus Serbia. A teammate did not capitalize on the most of a clever backheel over the opposing backline. His position looks secure so soon. Seven

The newcomer A debut start with the national team. A bit sloppy on the ball but his inswinging set-pieces caused problems. A useful pace-controller for the manager to have versus teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a poorly timed foul. 6

Declan Rice Deliveries from dead balls and free kicks caused problems. Was given freedom to move down the left flank only to be offside as the pass came with a chance to score. Awarded a well-earned break on the hour mark. 6/10

Jude Bellingham Played in a forward spot down the right and also did plenty of dirty work. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but mishit a shot over. Substituted late on by Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10

The winger Was presented with the team's top opening in the opening period, his effort well saved from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate hanging back, it fell to him to offer an outlet on the right although his balls from the touchline were hit and miss. Replaced with 15 to go. 6/10

Harry Kane The match-winner scoring 77th and 78th finishes for his country. The first a classic poacher’s finish while the second an excellent headed goal after peeling away from his marker. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and the side are strong contenders next summer when he's in the team. 8/10

The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a decent opportunity following a pass by the midfielder however Strakosha made the save. His replacement had a greater influence when substituted. 5

Replacements

  • Foden (for a teammate 63) Appeared sharp and combined effectively with the striker in a preferred position, Six
  • Saka (for Eze 63) Spurned chances but his corner provided the opener, 6/10
  • Rashford (for the attacker 75) Active when brought on assisting Kane’s second via an excellent ball into the area, 7
  • Elliot Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, 6/10
  • Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to influence the game, Six
Stacy Nelson
Stacy Nelson

Maya Chen is a tech journalist and business analyst with over a decade of experience covering global innovation trends and startup ecosystems.