During a impressive display, England wrapped up a further victory against their opponents, with several players delivering memorable performances throughout the game.
Starting XI
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to perform during the opening 45 before tested by Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. One well-timed sliding intervention on an Albanian attacker highlighted sharp anticipation. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Challenged by Albania’s primary attacker in Hoxha. Started more centrally early on then shifted to the flank once Saka entered the fray. 7
John Stones Pushed up the pitch on the ball, as he has done before. On occasion seemed hesitant in possession and the experiment discontinued at half-time. 6/10
The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, as always, but may be another option for Stones in the backline instead of alongside him. A careless ball in the second half came close to the first goal from Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly Another composed display from the 20-year-old after his initial appearance versus another side. Saka was unable to take full advantage of an exquisite touch behind their defense. His position looks secure so soon. Seven
The newcomer His first start for his country. A bit loose on the ball however his whipped corners were a threat. An effective game manager for the coach to call upon versus sides that sit back. Booked after a reckless foul. 6
Declan Rice Deliveries from dead balls and free-kicks created chances. Was given room to roam down the left flank yet found himself in an offside position as the pass came in front of goal. Granted a well-earned substitution around the 60-minute point. 6
Jude Bellingham Functioned in a high position down the right and put in the hard yards. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance and scuffed a shot over. Withdrawn in the closing stages for Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7/10
The winger Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity of the first half, his strike excellently kept out from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate holding position, it fell to him to offer an outlet on the right although his balls from wide areas were hit and miss. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. Six
Harry Kane The difference-maker scoring two more finishes at international level. The opener a trademark opportunist's goal while the second a classy header after peeling away from his marker. Now 32, he continues to improve and the side have every chance in future competitions with him leading the line. Eight
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to make an impact from the left. Was presented with a good opening when set up by the midfielder but Strakosha made the save. Rashford produced a bigger influence after coming on. 5
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for Rice 63) Appeared sharp connecting seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, 6
- Bukayo Saka (on for Eze 63) Failed to convert but his corner led to the first goal, Six
- Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Energetic upon introduction assisting the second goal with superb cross into the area, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Seems settled so soon, 6/10
- Rogers (replacing the star 84) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6
