It was not a night of high-intensity football, despite the anticipation surrounding the new head coach. The emphasis was on professionalism and control rather than the excitement and flair that had been promised. England secured a comfortable victory, with one emerging talent making a dream debut and a familiar face adding yet another milestone to his record.
Myles Lewis-Skelly shone in his first appearance, showcasing the dynamic runs from left-back that have defined his breakthrough season. His debut goal came just 20 minutes into the game, an instant highlight in what has already been a remarkable rise for the 18-year-old.
Harry Kane, ever-reliable, found the net once again, reinforcing his place in the history books. The captain had hinted that his goal-scoring prowess was becoming routine to the point of being overlooked. His late strike, bringing his tally to 70 goals in 104 appearances, ensured England’s victory.
The opposition, ranked 65th in the world, struggled defensively, conceding both goals in avoidable fashion. The result, however, marked a steady start for the new era, with a strong defensive display from Ezri Konsa and promising moments from Jude Bellingham.
From the moment the head coach stepped onto the pitch, all eyes were on him and his team selection. Dan Burn and Lewis-Skelly were handed debuts, while Marc Guéhi remained on the bench. Curtis Jones partnered Declan Rice in midfield, allowing Bellingham to operate further forward in a more attacking role. Marcus Rashford also returned to the starting lineup after a year-long absence.
The pre-match atmosphere was electric, with banners, fireworks, and even a specially crafted song celebrating the new leadership. England pressed with intensity early on, setting a strong tempo without possession, though their play with the ball was more methodical, focused on breaking down Albania’s deep defensive setup.
Lewis-Skelly seized his moment brilliantly. Displaying confidence from the start, he capitalized on an opportunity created by Bellingham, timing his run perfectly to evade his marker. His first-time finish slipped through the legs of the goalkeeper, a moment of pure elation for the young defender.
Albania offered little in response during the first half but had a fleeting chance to level the score when Qazim Laci’s cross took a looping deflection off Burn, dropping onto the top of the crossbar. England, however, remained in control, creating several openings before halftime. Rashford combined well with Bellingham, whose shot was saved at close range. Bellingham also saw a header kept out brilliantly, while Kane’s follow-up effort was blocked. Burn nearly marked his debut with a goal, his powerful header from a corner rattling the crossbar.
The second half saw England’s tempo drop, and Albania found occasional openings. Burn’s lack of pace was exposed more than once, and Armando Broja nearly capitalized. A crucial intervention from Konsa prevented a clear scoring opportunity.
Lewis-Skelly continued to push forward, offering an attacking outlet down the left, while Rashford and Phil Foden struggled to make a decisive impact. Bellingham provided a fine cross for Kane, whose header lacked power, and Jones hesitated when presented with a shooting opportunity.
The game drifted before Kane’s late goal secured the victory. A misjudged clearance from Albania’s Arlind Ajeti allowed the captain to control the ball before placing a precise finish into the far corner. It was a fitting end to a solid, if unspectacular, performance.
