England secured a commanding 2-0 victory over Albania in their World Cup qualifying match on Saturday evening, maintaining their strong position in the group with a clinical second-half performance.
The Three Lions, under interim management following recent changes, dominated proceedings at the Air Albania Stadium, where Harry Kane proved the difference with a brace in the final quarter of the game.
The first half ended goalless despite England’s control of possession.
England made their pressure count in the 74th minute when Harry Kane opened the scoring with a composed finish after a swift counter-attack, to make it 1-0.
The Bayern Munich striker who has been scoring nonstop this season, doubled the lead in the 82nd minute, converting from close range following a goalmouth scramble.
The goal was initially credited to Marcus Rashford but officially awarded to Kane after review.
Albania pushed for a response in the dying minutes but managed only three shots on target throughout the match.
A late yellow card for Jude Bellingham for tripping underlined the hosts’ frustration.
The win keeps England atop their qualifying group, while Albania remain winless in the campaign. Sylvinho’s side now face an uphill battle to secure a playoff spot.
England’s next qualifier is in March 2026.
For Albania, attention turns to rebuilding ahead of the Nations League.
