Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Triumph Secured by Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match

Throughout a commanding display, the English national team clinched another win against Albania, featuring a number of players turning in memorable performances on the pitch.

First-choice Eleven

The goalkeeper Was rarely tested required before the break until forced to intervene by an opponent's curling effort. One well-timed sliding intervention on Qazim Laci showed sharp game intelligence. 6/10

The debutant Challenged against Albania’s main danger in their forward. Operated through the middle initially then shifted to the flank once a teammate was introduced. Seven

John Stones Advanced forward with the ball at his feet, as he has done in the past. On occasion lacked urgency when carrying play with the experiment abandoned at half-time. Six

The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, per usual, could serve as another option for Stones in defense instead of paired with him. One wayward distribution in the second half nearly resulted in a goal from the visitors. 6

Nico O’Reilly One more assured showing from the youngster after his initial appearance versus another side. Saka failed to make full advantage of an exquisite touch behind the Albania defence. The left-back spot is his to lose already. 7/10

The newcomer A debut start with the national team. A bit loose on the ball though his inswinging deliveries posed a danger. A useful tempo-setter available to the coach to utilize against sides that sit back. Cautioned after a reckless foul. 6

Declan Rice Deliveries from corners and set-plays created chances. Enjoyed license to roam on the left only to be offside upon receiving in front of goal. Awarded a merited rest around the 60-minute point. 6

The star midfielder Operated in a high position out wide while also put in defensive duties. Showed glimpses of brilliance but scuffed a shot wide. Withdrawn late on for a teammate, his competition, following a yellow card. 7/10

Jarrod Bowen Had the team's clearest opportunity of the first half, his strike excellently kept out by Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate holding position, it fell to him to provide width down the right side but his crosses into the box were inconsistent. Taken off with 15 to go. Six

The captain The decisive figure with his two more strikes at international level. The opener a typical poacher’s finish and the second a classy headed goal after peeling away away from the opposition. Aged 32, he continues to improve and the side stand a real opportunity in future competitions with him up top. 8/10

Eberechi Eze Found it tough to influence play out wide. Was presented with a decent opportunity following a pass from a teammate however the keeper made the save. Rashford produced a bigger effect in his place. 5

Substitutes

• Phil Foden (for Rice 63) Looked lively and linked up seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, Six
• Bukayo Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece created the first goal, 6/10
• Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Energetic after coming on and provided Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery into the area, Seven
• Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable already, 6/10
• Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6/10