Player Ratings: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier

In a impressive performance, England secured one more victory versus Albania, featuring a number of players delivering memorable displays during the match.

First-choice Eleven

The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to perform in the first half until tested by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding tackle against Qazim Laci highlighted his reading of the game. 6/10

The debutant Tested by the opposition's primary attacker in Hoxha. Operated more centrally initially later drifted out wide once Saka was introduced. Seven

The defender Moved up the pitch when in possession, something he's known for before. At times seemed hesitant in possession with the experiment was shelved by the interval. 6/10

The tall defender A nuisance from dead balls, per usual, but may be a replacement for his teammate in the backline rather than paired with him. A careless ball after the break almost led to the first goal for the visitors. Six

Nico O’Reilly One more composed showing by the rising star following his initial appearance versus Serbia. A teammate did not capitalize on the opportunity from a clever touch over the Albania defence. The role is firmly his so soon. 7

The newcomer His maiden beginning for his country. Somewhat loose on the ball however his whipped corners caused problems. A handy game manager available to the coach to have versus teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed challenge. 6/10

Declan Rice Set-pieces on corner kicks and free kicks caused problems. Enjoyed room to roam on the left but was in an offside position when the ball arrived in front of goal. Given a well-earned substitution after an hour. 6

Jude Bellingham Operated in an advanced spot down the right and also put in the hard yards. Demonstrated moments of class and mishit an attempt over. Substituted in the closing stages by Rogers, his competition, after being booked. Seven

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s top opening of the first half, his strike well saved by the opposing goalkeeper. As a teammate staying deep, he had to stretch the play on the right although his balls into the box were hit and miss. Taken off with 15 to go. 6/10

Harry Kane The match-winner netting 77th and 78th finishes at international level. The first a typical close-range tap-in while the second an excellent header after peeling away off his defender. At 32, his form is unwavering and the side have every chance in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. Eight

The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact on the left flank. Had a presentable chance after being played in by Bellingham yet Strakosha made the save. His replacement made much more of an impact when substituted. 5

Bench Players

  • Phil Foden (for a teammate 63) Appeared sharp connecting seamlessly with Kane in more familiar role, 6/10
  • Saka (on for Eze 63) Spurned chances yet his delivery provided the breakthrough, 6
  • Rashford (for Bowen 75) Active upon introduction and set up Kane’s second with superb cross into the area, Seven
  • Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable so soon, 6/10
  • Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to affect things, Six
Ashley Mann
Ashley Mann

A software engineer with over a decade of experience in full-stack development, passionate about open-source projects and mentoring aspiring developers.