Squad Ratings: The Three Lions Triumph Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifier
During a impressive display, the English national team clinched another victory against their opponents, with multiple players producing standout displays on the pitch.
First-choice XI
The goalkeeper Not a save to perform during the opening 45 until forced to intervene from an opponent's curled attempt. His sliding tackle on Qazim Laci showed his anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Challenged by Albania’s primary attacker in their forward. Played more centrally early on later drifted out wide after Saka was introduced. Seven
John Stones Advanced up the pitch with the ball at his feet, something he's known for before. On occasion lacked urgency in possession and the experiment was shelved by the interval. 6/10
Dan Burn A constant threat from dead balls, typically, could serve as an alternative for Stones in defense rather than his partner. One wayward pass after the break almost led to an opener from the visitors. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly Another confident display by the rising star following his first cap versus Serbia. A teammate did not capitalize on the most of a gorgeous flick over the Albania defence. The role looks secure already. Seven
The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. Somewhat loose on the ball but his whipped set-pieces posed a danger. An effective tempo-setter for the boss to utilize against defensive opponents. Cautioned after a reckless foul. 6/10
The midfielder Deliveries from dead balls and set-plays created chances. Enjoyed license to roam on the left only to be in an offside position upon receiving in front of goal. Awarded a well-earned break on the hour mark. 6/10
Jude Bellingham Functioned in an advanced role out wide and contributed with defensive duties. Demonstrated flashes of quality and mishit a shot wide. Substituted in the closing stages for Rogers, his competition, after being booked. Seven
The winger Was presented with the team's best chance of the first half, his shot well saved by Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate staying deep, he was forced to stretch the play out wide although his balls from the touchline were inconsistent. Replaced with 15 to go. 6/10
The captain The match-winner with his two more finishes for his country. The first a trademark close-range tap-in while the second a superb finish with his head following a clever run away from the opposition. Aged 32, he’s only getting better with the national team are strong contenders in future competitions with him up top. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a decent opportunity after being played in by the midfielder however Strakosha made the save. Rashford made much more of effect after coming on. Five
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and combined seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, 6
- Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner created the opener, 6
- Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Active after coming on and set up Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the far post, 7
- Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Seems settled at this level, 6/10
- Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to affect things, 6/10