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

In a commanding showing, the English national team clinched a further triumph against Albania, with a number of players turning in standout displays during the match.

Starting XI

The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to perform during the opening 45 but then called into action by an opponent's curled attempt. A sliding tackle against Qazim Laci showed his game intelligence. 6/10

The debutant Challenged against Albania’s primary attacker through their forward. Started through the middle early on but moved out wide after a teammate came on. 7

John Stones Advanced into midfield on the ball, something he's known for previously. Sometimes was too casual in possession and the experiment abandoned by the interval. 6

The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be an alternative for Stones in the backline rather than his partner. One wayward distribution in the second half came close to the first goal from Albania. Six

Nico O’Reilly One more confident display from the youngster after his debut against another side. A teammate failed to make the opportunity from a clever flick over the opposing backline. The left-back spot is firmly his already. 7/10

Adam Wharton A debut start with the national team. Somewhat loose in possession however his inswinging deliveries caused problems. A handy tempo-setter available to the coach to call upon against teams who drop deep. Cautioned after a reckless tackle. 6/10

The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and free kicks created chances. Was given room to roam in left midfield but was in an offside position when the ball arrived in front of goal. Granted a merited rest after an hour. 6

The star midfielder Played in a forward position out wide and also contributed with defensive duties. Showed moments of class and dragged a shot over. Substituted towards the end by Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10

The winger Was presented with the team's top opening before halftime, his shot well saved from Thomas Strakosha. As Quansah staying deep, he had to provide width out wide yet his deliveries from wide areas were hit and miss. Taken off late in the match. 6

The captain The match-winner scoring two more finishes for his country. The first a trademark poacher’s finish and the second a classy header following a clever run off his defender. At 32, he’s only getting better with the national team stand a real opportunity in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. 8/10

Eberechi Eze Struggled to influence play from the left. Had a decent opportunity following a pass by Bellingham yet the keeper made the save. His replacement had a greater influence when substituted. 5/10

Bench Players

  • Phil Foden (for Rice 63) Was bright connecting effectively with Kane in more familiar role, Six
  • Saka (on for Eze 63) Spurned chances yet his delivery provided the opener, Six
  • Rashford (for Bowen 75) Energetic upon introduction and provided the captain's brace with superb cross to the far post, 7/10
  • Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable already, 6
  • Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6/10
Anna Peters
Anna Peters

Maya Sterling is a leadership coach and innovation strategist with over 15 years of experience helping organizations and individuals achieve transformative growth.