England capped off a flawless World Cup qualification campaign with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Albania in Group K on Sunday. Captain Harry Kane netted a late double, ensuring the team finished the group stage with a perfect winning record and zero goals conceded—a historic achievement for the Three Lions.
Despite England having already guaranteed their spot in North America, coach Thomas Tuchel made several squad changes, including restoring Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham to the starting lineup and handing a first senior cap to defender Jarell Quansah. The changes faced a stern test from a lively Albania side, who had been unbeaten in their previous eight games. Winger Arber Hoxha was a constant menace, forcing goalkeeper Dean Henderson, who was in for the rested Jordan Pickford, into fine saves, and even missing a crucial chance to put Albania ahead. Jarrod Bowen came closest for England in the first half, but the match remained deadlocked for most of the contest.
It took until the 74th minute for England to break the deadlock. Substitute Bukayo Saka delivered a low corner that flashed across the area, allowing Kane to poach the opener from close range.
Eight minutes later, Kane finished the job, rising high to convert a clinical header from Marcus Rashford's deep cross. The brace took Kane's England tally to 78 goals from 112 games, moving him past Brazilian great Pelé (77 goals in 92 games) for total goals scored for club and country this season. The victory cemented England's place in history.
They became the first European nation to qualify for a World Cup by winning all their games (8/8) without conceding a single goal in a group featuring at least six games. England is also just the fifth European team ever to qualify for a World Cup with a 100% record, finishing Group K with a maximum 24 points and scoring 22 goals. Kane expressed his satisfaction with the result, calling it a "really tough game" but acknowledging the importance of finishing the campaign with a strong win and another clean sheet.
Comment
