Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Triumph Secured by Kane's Brace in International Qualifier
During a commanding performance, the English national team wrapped up a further win versus Albania, featuring multiple players producing standout performances during the match.
Starting Lineup
The goalkeeper Had little to do to perform in the first half before tested from an opponent's curling effort. His sliding challenge on Qazim Laci showed his anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Examined by Albania’s primary attacker through their forward. Played through the middle to begin with later drifted out wide once Saka came on. 7/10
John Stones Moved forward when in possession, as he has done previously. At times was too casual on the ball with the approach discontinued by the interval. 6
Dan Burn A constant threat from dead balls, typically, could serve as another option to his teammate in the backline as opposed to alongside him. A loose distribution after the break came close to an opener from Albania. 6
The young full-back A further assured performance from the rising star following his first cap versus another side. Saka was unable to take the most of a gorgeous flick over the opposing backline. His position is firmly his so soon. 7
The newcomer His first start with the national team. A bit careless on the ball however his whipped corners caused problems. An effective pace-controller for the coach to have against defensive opponents. Booked for a rash tackle. 6
The midfielder Deliveries from dead balls and free-kicks created chances. Enjoyed freedom to roam on the left only to be in an offside position upon receiving with a chance to score. Awarded a merited rest around the 60-minute point. 6/10
Jude Bellingham Operated in a forward position down the right and contributed with the hard yards. Demonstrated moments of class and mishit an attempt over. Withdrawn late on for a teammate, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7
The winger Had the team's best chance of the first half, his effort smartly stopped from the opposing goalkeeper. As Quansah holding position, he was forced to offer an outlet out wide although his balls into the box varied in quality. Substituted late in the match. 6/10
The captain The difference-maker netting two more finishes at international level. The opener a classic close-range tap-in while the second a superb headed goal after peeling away off his defender. At 32, he continues to improve and the side stand a real opportunity in future competitions with him up top. Eight
The attacker Had difficulty to influence play from the left. Had a good opening following a pass by the midfielder yet the keeper denied him. Rashford had a greater influence when substituted. Five
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (for Rice 63) Looked lively and combined effectively with Kane in a preferred position, Six
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Failed to convert yet his delivery led to the opener, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Active after coming on and set up the second goal via an excellent ball into the area, Seven
- Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Seems settled so soon, Six
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to make an impact, 6/10