Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match
In a dominant performance, England secured one more win against their opponents, with multiple players delivering notable displays throughout the game.
First-choice Eleven
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to perform before the break but then forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. A sliding tackle against Qazim Laci highlighted sharp game intelligence. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Challenged by the opposition's primary attacker through Hoxha. Started more centrally initially but moved to the flank once Saka came on. 7
John Stones Moved forward with the ball at his feet, as he has done in the past. On occasion was too casual when carrying play and the approach abandoned by the interval. 6/10
Dan Burn A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, per usual, could serve as an alternative to his teammate in defense as opposed to his partner. A loose pass later in the match nearly resulted in the first goal from the visitors. 6/10
The young full-back One more assured display from the youngster following his first cap against another side. Saka was unable to take full advantage of a gorgeous backheel over the opposing backline. The left-back spot is firmly his at this stage. 7/10
The newcomer A debut start with the national team. Slightly loose on the ball but his dangerous set-pieces posed a danger. A handy game manager for the boss to have against sides that sit back. Booked for a poorly timed tackle. Six
Declan Rice Deliveries from dead balls and free kicks created chances. Had room to drift down the left flank but was offside upon receiving with a chance to score. Granted a merited break after an hour. Six
The star midfielder Operated in a high position down the right while also put in dirty work. Demonstrated flashes of quality but mishit a shot over. Withdrawn late on for Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Had the team's clearest opportunity of the first half, his strike smartly stopped by Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate staying deep, he had to offer an outlet out wide but his crosses from the touchline were inconsistent. Replaced late in the match. 6
Harry Kane The difference-maker scoring 77th and 78th finishes in an England shirt. The opener a trademark close-range tap-in and his next a classy headed goal having drifted away off his defender. Now 32, he’s only getting better and England stand a real opportunity in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to get into the game out wide. Had a good opening following a pass by the midfielder but the keeper made the save. His replacement had a greater effect when substituted. 5/10
Bench Players
- Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright connecting well with Kane in a preferred position, Six
- Saka (on for Eze 63) Missed opportunities yet his delivery provided the first goal, 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 back post, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Seems settled already, Six
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Too brief a spell to influence the game, Six