Player Ratings: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match

Throughout a commanding performance, England wrapped up another triumph versus Albania, featuring multiple players delivering notable displays during the match.

First-choice XI

Dean Henderson Had little to do to perform before the break but then called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding intervention against Qazim Laci showed sharp reading of the game. 6/10

Jarell Quansah Challenged against Albania’s main danger in their forward. Played in a central role initially then shifted out wide after Saka came on. 7/10

The defender Moved forward when in possession, something he's known for in the past. On occasion lacked urgency on the ball and the tactic discontinued after the break. 6

The tall defender Always dangerous at set pieces, as always, could serve as another option to his teammate at the back as opposed to paired with him. A careless pass later in the match came close to the first goal for the visitors. 6

The young full-back Another composed display from the rising star following his initial appearance versus another side. A teammate was unable to take the opportunity from a gorgeous flick over the Albania defence. The role is firmly his at this stage. 7/10

The newcomer A debut start for his country. Slightly sloppy on the ball though his inswinging set-pieces were a threat. An effective pace-controller for the manager to call upon versus defensive opponents. Cautioned for a poorly timed challenge. Six

Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and free-kicks created chances. Was given freedom to roam in left midfield yet found himself in an offside position as the pass came in shooting positions. Awarded a well-earned break around the 60-minute point. 6/10

Jude Bellingham Played in an advanced position on the right and also contributed with dirty work. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance but mishit a shot high. Withdrawn in the closing stages for a teammate, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's best chance of the first half, his effort well saved by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah hanging back, he had to stretch the play on the right but his crosses from the touchline were inconsistent. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6

The captain The difference-maker netting 77th and 78th strikes for his country. The opener a classic opportunist's goal and his next a superb headed goal following a clever run off his defender. Aged 32, he’s only getting better and England are strong contenders in future competitions when he's in the team. 8/10

Eberechi Eze Struggled to get into the game from the left. Was presented with a presentable chance after being played in from a teammate but the keeper denied him. His replacement produced a bigger influence in his place. 5

Substitutes

  • Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up effectively with the striker in a natural spot, 6
  • Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances yet his delivery created the first goal, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Lively after coming on assisting the second goal with a brilliant delivery into the area, 7/10
  • Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established so soon, 6
  • Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6/10
Andrew Robbins
Andrew Robbins

A seasoned gaming journalist with over a decade of experience covering online casinos and slot strategies across Europe.

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