England Defeats Albania but Opportunities Remain

On November 16, 2025, the England national team secured their eighth consecutive victory in the qualification stage by defeating Albania 2-0 in an away match. The Albanian team resisted the strong opponent for a significant amount of time, but Harry Kane’s double ultimately decided the outcome of the game.

From the beginning of the match, the England team controlled possession and the field. Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham managed the midfield, while Jarrod Bowen made an active presence on the right flank.

In the 7th minute, Rice delivered a low shot, but Strakosha saved the goal. Later, Jarrod Bowen had a great chance, but the Albanian goalkeeper once again rescued his team.

The Albanian team rarely engaged in counterattacks. Their most dangerous attempt came from Hysaj, who struck from a long distance, but the ball went over the crossbar.

The first half ended in a 0-0 draw. In the second half, the hosts began playing with more courage.

Xhoja and Bajrami made efforts to shoot from long distances, but England’s goalkeeper Henderson played confidently. The decisive moments came after Tuchel made several substitutions.

The introduction of Saka, Foden, and later Rashford increased the pressure on the flanks. In the 75th minute, England capitalized on a set-piece opportunity.

Following a corner, Harry Kane struck once to beat Strakosha and open the scoring. Albania attempted to equalize, but this led to openings in their defensive zones.

In the 83rd minute, Rashford provided a pass from the left flank to the far post, where Kane once again triumphed in a duel, heading in the second goal. England extended their streak of clean sheets in the qualification stage.

Albania, meanwhile, remains in second place and will continue to contend for a playoff spot. Read “Zamin” on Telegram!