Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifier

During a dominant showing, the English national team secured one more victory versus their opponents, featuring several players delivering standout performances during the match.

Starting Lineup

The goalkeeper Had little to do to perform in the first half before called into action by an opponent's curling effort. A sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker highlighted his game intelligence. 6/10

Jarell Quansah Examined against Albania’s primary attacker through their forward. Played through the middle initially later drifted wider after a teammate came on. Seven

John Stones Pushed forward with the ball at his feet, as he has done before. Sometimes was too casual in possession and the tactic abandoned by the interval. 6

Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, typically, could serve as an alternative for his teammate at the back rather than paired with him. A careless pass in the second half almost led to the first goal from Albania. 6

Nico O’Reilly Another assured showing by the rising star after his debut versus another side. Saka was unable to take the most of an exquisite backheel over the opposing backline. His position is firmly his already. 7/10

The newcomer His first start for his country. Somewhat careless when playing out though his dangerous set-pieces caused problems. An effective tempo-setter available to the boss to utilize versus defensive opponents. Booked for a rash challenge. 6/10

Declan Rice Set-pieces on corner kicks and free-kicks created chances. Had room to move down the left flank yet found himself in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Given a well-earned rest on the hour mark. 6/10

Jude Bellingham Operated in an advanced position down the right and also contributed with defensive duties. Demonstrated moments of class but scuffed an effort over. Replaced late on by Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's top opening in the opening period, his strike well saved by the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah holding position, he had to offer an outlet down the right side yet his deliveries from the touchline varied in quality. Replaced with 15 to go. 6/10

The captain The match-winner netting two more strikes at international level. His first a typical poacher’s finish while the second an excellent headed goal after peeling away from his marker. Now 32, he’s only getting better and the side have every chance in future competitions with him up top. 8/10

Eberechi Eze Found it tough to get into the game from the left. Was presented with a presentable chance following a pass by the midfielder but Strakosha made the save. His replacement made much more of an impact in his place. 5

Replacements

  • Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up well with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
  • Saka (for the winger 63) Failed to convert yet his delivery provided the breakthrough, Six
  • Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Lively when brought on and provided the second goal with a brilliant delivery to the far post, 7/10
  • Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Looks established at this level, Six
  • Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, Six
Craig Richardson
Craig Richardson

A tech journalist and software developer with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and digital trends.