Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match
During a impressive display, England clinched a further triumph versus their opponents, with multiple squad members producing memorable performances during the match.
Starting Lineup
The goalkeeper Not a save required in the first half until forced to intervene by an opponent's curling effort. One well-timed sliding tackle against Qazim Laci showed sharp reading of the game. 6/10
The debutant Challenged by the opposition's primary attacker through their forward. Played more centrally initially later drifted to the flank after a teammate came on. Seven
The defender Advanced into midfield when in possession, a familiar role previously. On occasion was too casual in possession and the approach abandoned after the break. 6/10
Dan Burn A constant threat from dead balls, per usual, perhaps is another option to his teammate in defense instead of paired with him. A loose pass later in the match almost led to the first goal for the visitors. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly One more confident showing from the rising star following his initial appearance versus another side. Saka failed to make the opportunity from a gorgeous touch over their defense. His position is his to lose already. Seven
The newcomer His first start for his country. Slightly sloppy on the ball however his inswinging set-pieces were a threat. A useful tempo-setter for the coach to have versus defensive opponents. Shown a yellow after a reckless foul. 6/10
The midfielder Set-pieces from dead balls and free-kicks created chances. Was given freedom to drift down the left flank but was in an offside position upon receiving with a chance to score. Awarded a merited break on the hour mark. Six
Jude Bellingham Functioned in a forward spot on the right while also put in the hard yards. Demonstrated flashes of quality and mishit an attempt wide. Substituted towards the end by a teammate, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7/10
The winger Had the team's top opening in the opening period, his effort well saved by the Albanian keeper. With a teammate staying deep, he was forced to provide width down the right side although his balls into the box varied in quality. Substituted late in the match. 6/10
The captain The difference-maker scoring two more goals for his country. The first a trademark opportunist's goal while the second an excellent finish with his head following a clever run away from the opposition. Aged 32, he’s only getting better with the national team stand a real opportunity next summer when he's in the team. 8
The attacker Found it tough to make an impact on the left flank. Had a presentable chance after being played in by Bellingham however the keeper made the save. Rashford made much more of an impact in his place. 5
Replacements
- Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Looked lively connecting seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, Six
- Saka (on for the winger 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece created the opener, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Lively after coming on and set up the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the far post, 7
- Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled at this level, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to influence the game, 6/10