Match Analysis: England’s Performance Against Albania

**Dean Henderson (8/10):**
Henderson faced significant pressure early in the second half but handled it adeptly, making an impressive save from Hoxha and executing a crucial tackle on Laci outside of his area. This match marked his first clean sheet in just his third start for England, a far more positive experience compared to his last outing against Senegal.

**Jarell Quansah (6/10):**
Quansah delivered a competent yet unremarkable debut performance as a defender for Bayer Leverkusen. While his forward ambition was limited, he effectively contained threats on his side.

**John Stones (6/10):**
Stones played a more advanced role, often moving into midfield and rotating with Wharton. His presence bolstered England’s offensive efforts, but it was insufficient to penetrate Albania’s defense for much of the match.

**Dan Burn (5/10):**
Burn faced challenges, particularly as Albania commenced the second half strongly. His performance underscored his role as more of a squad player than a starting option.

**Nico O’Reilly (7/10):**
O’Reilly had a positive second start for England, frequently advancing and showcasing resilience. He appears to be a strong candidate for the starting left-back position heading into the World Cup.

**Declan Rice (6/10):**
Rice’s performance was far from his most impactful for England; he struggled to influence the play and lacked his typical offensive contribution, yet he committed few errors.

**Jude Bellingham (7/10):**
Bellingham displayed energy on the pitch, reminding spectators of his importance to the team, even if his offensive efforts did not yield results.

**Adam Wharton (6/10):**
In his long-anticipated first start, Wharton performed adequately but failed to meet the high expectations set for him, offering little for Anderson to worry about.

**Jarrod Bowen (6/10):**
Bowen created England’s best chance in the first half, forcing goalkeeper Strakosha into a significant save.

**Harry Kane (7/10):**
Reflective of much of his England career, Kane was relatively uninvolved for long stretches but showcased his instincts in the penalty area, scoring an important opener and adding a second with a well-placed header.

**Eberechi Eze (5/10):**
Eze had a disappointing start, appearing out of sync with Rice and missing a close-range opportunity against Strakosha. He was substituted for Saka in the 62nd minute.

**Phil Foden (6/10):**
Foden injected some dynamism into England’s attack with his movement, though his impact was limited in terms of tangible contributions.

**Bukayo Saka (6/10):**
After coming on for Eze, Saka mishandled a couple of chances but redeemed himself by providing the assist for the crucial opening goal.

**Marcus Rashford (8/10):**
Rashford made a significant impact after entering as a substitute, invigorating England’s left flank and delivering a perfect cross for Kane, alongside nearly scoring himself with a close effort.

**Elliot Anderson (N/A):**
Coming on in the 75th minute, Anderson contributed to England achieving a sixth consecutive victory in which he was involved.

**Morgan Rogers (N/A):**
Rogers replaced Bellingham in the 84th minute.

**Thomas Tuchel (6/10):**
Tuchel made seven changes from the previous match against Serbia, which was evident as his side recorded their lowest expected goals total during his tenure in the first half. The overall performance highlighted some depth issues, but his substitutions were effective in securing a victory, adding a notable achievement to his record regardless of future outcomes.