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

In a commanding showing, the English national team clinched one more win versus their opponents, featuring several squad members delivering standout performances throughout the game.

First-choice Lineup

The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to make in the first half before called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding challenge on an Albanian attacker demonstrated his anticipation. Six out of ten

Jarell Quansah Tested against Albania’s primary attacker through their forward. Played in a central role initially but moved out wide after a teammate entered the fray. 7

John Stones Pushed into midfield on the ball, something he's known for before. At times lacked urgency on the ball and the experiment discontinued at half-time. 6

Dan Burn A nuisance from dead balls, per usual, perhaps is a replacement to his teammate in the backline as opposed to his partner. One wayward pass later in the match nearly resulted in an opener from Albania. 6/10

The young full-back A further composed showing by the youngster after his first cap against another side. Saka did not capitalize on full advantage of a clever touch over their defense. The role is his to lose at this stage. Seven

The newcomer His first start for his country. A bit careless when playing out though his inswinging corners posed a danger. A handy pace-controller available to the boss to call upon against defensive opponents. Cautioned after a reckless tackle. Six

The midfielder Deliveries from corners and free kicks were dangerous. Enjoyed freedom to drift down the left flank but was in an offside position upon receiving with a chance to score. Given a merited break around the 60-minute point. 6/10

Jude Bellingham Operated in a forward position out wide and also put in defensive duties. Showed moments of class and scuffed an effort high. Replaced late on for Rogers, his competition, after being booked. 7

Jarrod Bowen Had England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his effort well saved from the opposing goalkeeper. As a teammate staying deep, it fell to him to stretch the play down the right side yet his deliveries from the touchline were hit and miss. Replaced with 15 to go. 6/10

The captain The difference-maker netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth strikes in an England shirt. The first a typical opportunist's goal and the second a superb finish with his head having drifted away off his defender. Aged 32, he continues to improve with the national team stand a real opportunity in future competitions with him up top. Eight

The attacker Had difficulty to get into the game on the left flank. Had a decent opportunity after being played in by Bellingham however the keeper kept it out. Rashford made much more of an impact after coming on. 5

Replacements

  • Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and combined effectively with the striker in a preferred position, 6
  • Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances yet his delivery provided the opener, 6/10
  • Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Active upon introduction and provided the captain's brace with superb cross to the back post, 7
  • Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable so soon, 6/10
  • Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to influence the game, 6/10
Grant Sparks
Grant Sparks

Maya Chen is a digital strategist and tech writer with over a decade of experience in Silicon Valley, specializing in AI integration and startup ecosystems.