Harry Kane scored two second-half goals as England defeated Albania 2-0 in their final World Cup qualifier to complete a flawless campaign with eight wins from eight matches.
The Three Lions, who had already secured qualification as group winners, became the first European team to navigate a qualifying group of six or more games by winning every match without conceding a goal.
Kane double seals perfect qualifying campaign for England
Manager Thomas Tuchel made seven changes from the side that beat Serbia on Thursday. Consequently, his experimental lineup struggled to find its rhythm against a resilient Albanian side. Despite the victory, it was not a vintage performance. The team also utilised tactical tweaks, such as John Stones stepping into midfield when in possession.
Albania arrived unbeaten in their previous eight matches. In fact, they missed a clear opportunity to take the lead, but Arber Hoxha shot directly at Dean Henderson after a swift counter-attack.
England had chances of their own. For instance, Jude Bellingham, Jarrod Bowen, and substitute Bukayo Saka all went close. However, the breakthrough only arrived in the 74th minute. It came when Kane bundled Saka’s corner over the line from close range.
Well played, lads! 🙌 pic.twitter.com/GIUmOgDemI
— England (@England) November 16, 2025
Kane, who took his international tally to 78 goals, sealed the 2-0 win eight minutes later. He powerfully headed home an excellent cross from fellow substitute Marcus Rashford.
The match also marked a debut for Jarell Quansah. He is just the seventh player to earn a first cap under Tuchel. Additionally, it saw Jude Bellingham make his first start for England since June, following a shoulder injury. He now competes with the in-form Morgan Rogers for the number 10 role.
Ultimately, the victory once again highlighted Tuchel’s decisive in-game management. Just as substitutes Eberechi Eze and Phil Foden combined for a goal against Serbia, this match featured a similar impact.
100% & 0 – England (8 games) are the second European team to win 100% of their games in a FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign without conceding, after Yugoslavia in qualification for the 1954 FIFA World Cup (4 games). Perfection. pic.twitter.com/oAHbMNGCFn
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) November 16, 2025
This time, the introductions of Saka and Rashford provided the assists for Kane. This tactical trait has impressed fans, especially in contrast to criticism of fine-margin tournament exits under former manager Gareth Southgate.
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