Player Ratings: England Win Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match

During a dominant display, England secured another victory versus Albania, with several squad members producing notable performances on the pitch.

First-choice Eleven

The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to perform in the first half until called into action by an opponent's curling effort. A sliding challenge against Qazim Laci showed his game intelligence. 6/10

The debutant Challenged by the opposition's biggest threat through their forward. Operated in a central role to begin with later drifted to the flank after a teammate was introduced. 7

The defender Advanced into midfield on the ball, something he's known for before. Sometimes seemed hesitant in possession with the approach was shelved after the break. 6/10

The tall defender Always dangerous at set pieces, typically, but may be another option to his teammate in the backline rather than his partner. A careless pass later in the match nearly resulted in the first goal for the visitors. Six

The young full-back One more composed performance by the rising star following his initial appearance versus another side. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from a clever flick over the Albania defence. The left-back spot is his to lose so soon. 7

Adam Wharton A debut start with the national team. A bit careless in possession however his dangerous set-pieces were a threat. A handy game manager available to the manager to call upon against teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed foul. Six

The midfielder Set-pieces from corners and free-kicks were dangerous. Had room to move on the left but was in an offside position when the ball arrived in front of goal. Given a merited substitution after an hour. 6

The star midfielder Functioned in a forward position down the right and did plenty of dirty work. Displayed moments of class but mishit an effort wide. Replaced in the closing stages by Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's top opening in the opening period, his strike excellently kept out by Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate hanging back, it fell to him to offer an outlet down the right side although his balls from the touchline were hit and miss. Replaced late in the match. 6/10

Harry Kane The match-winner with his 77th and 78th strikes at international level. His first a trademark opportunist's goal while the second a classy header following a clever run away from the opposition. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and the side stand a real opportunity in future competitions with him leading the line. 8

The attacker Found it tough to get into the game out wide. Was presented with a good opening following a pass from a teammate however Strakosha made the save. Rashford had a greater an impact after coming on. Five

Replacements

  • Phil Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Was bright and combined well with the striker in a natural spot, 6/10
  • Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece led to the breakthrough, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Active upon introduction assisting the captain's brace via an excellent ball into the area, 7
  • Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Seems settled so soon, Six
  • Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6
Amber Huerta
Amber Huerta

Wildlife biologist and photographer specializing in sloth conservation, with over a decade of field experience in Central and South American rainforests.