Player Evaluations: England Win Secured by Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match

Throughout a commanding performance, England clinched a further win against their opponents, with multiple squad members turning in standout displays during the match.

Starting Eleven

Dean Henderson Not a save to perform during the opening 45 but then tested by an opponent's curled attempt. A sliding tackle on Qazim Laci demonstrated sharp anticipation. 6/10

The debutant Challenged by Albania’s primary attacker in Hoxha. Played more centrally early on later drifted out wide once Saka entered the fray. 7

John Stones Pushed up the pitch with the ball at his feet, a familiar role previously. At times was too casual on the ball with the approach abandoned at half-time. 6

The tall defender Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, as always, perhaps is another option for Stones in defense instead of paired with him. One wayward distribution later in the match nearly resulted in a goal from the visitors. Six

Nico O’Reilly One more assured performance by the youngster after his first cap against another side. A teammate was unable to take full advantage of a clever touch behind their defense. His position is his to lose so soon. 7

The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. A bit sloppy in possession but his inswinging corners posed a danger. An effective game manager for the boss to utilize versus defensive opponents. Booked for a poorly timed tackle. 6

Declan Rice Set-pieces from dead balls and set-plays caused problems. Was given room to roam in left midfield but was offside upon receiving with a chance to score. Awarded a deserved rest on the hour mark. Six

The star midfielder Played in a high role down the right while also contributed with defensive duties. Showed glimpses of brilliance and dragged a shot over. Replaced in the closing stages for a teammate, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. Seven

Jarrod Bowen Had England’s best chance before halftime, his effort well saved from Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah holding position, he was forced to provide width out wide but his crosses from wide areas were inconsistent. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. Six

The captain The decisive figure with his 77th and 78th strikes at international level. The opener a classic close-range tap-in and his next a superb headed goal following a clever run off his defender. Now 32, his form is unwavering with the national team are strong contenders in future competitions with him leading the line. 8

Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to influence play on the left flank. Had a good opening when set up from a teammate but Strakosha kept it out. His replacement produced a bigger an impact after coming on. 5

Replacements

  • Phil Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Was bright connecting effectively with the striker in a preferred position, 6/10
  • Bukayo Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece created the breakthrough, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Lively upon introduction assisting the second goal with a brilliant delivery into the area, Seven
  • Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Seems settled so soon, Six
  • Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, Six
Theresa Nielsen
Theresa Nielsen

A certified financial planner with over 15 years of experience in investment banking and personal wealth management.