England kicked off their 2026 World Cup qualifier campaign with a solid 2-0 victory over Albania at Wembley Stadium. The match, the first under German coach Thomas Tuchel, saw goals from Lewis Skelly and Harry Kane. This win placed England at the top of Group 11 with 3 points, while Albania remains at the bottom with none.
England’s Strong Start
The Three Lions dominated possession right from the start, although the opening minutes of the match did not present much danger. England controlled the ball but struggled to break Albania’s resilient defense in the early stages. However, the breakthrough came in the 20th minute.
Skelly’s Stunning Opener
After some persistent pressure, England’s Lewis Skelly opened the scoring with a magical touch. Jude Bellingham threaded a brilliant pass through the Albanian defense, and Skelly expertly sent the ball through goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha’s legs to give England a 1-0 lead.
Kane’s Near Miss and Albania’s Resistance
Harry Kane nearly doubled the score moments later but failed to control a close-range shot. Despite this, England kept up the pressure, with Strakosha making several crucial saves to keep Albania in the game. Albania had a few counterattacks but could not capitalize, with their best chance coming from a long-range shot by Assani that flew over the crossbar.
England’s Dominance Continues
The second half saw England continue to press, but Albania’s defense remained resolute. Kane had a powerful header early in the second half, but it went wide. Despite changes made by England’s coach Thomas Tuchel, bringing on fresh legs in the 74th minute, Albania failed to respond.
Kane Seals the Win
Just three minutes after the substitutions, Harry Kane sealed the win for England. He received a perfect cross inside the box, controlled the ball, and smashed it past Strakosha into the bottom corner, doubling England’s lead to 2-0.
Albania’s Failed Response
Albania attempted to change the game with multiple substitutions, but they could not find a way to threaten England’s goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. The final whistle confirmed England’s 2-0 victory.
Conclusion
England’s 2-0 win over Albania in the 2026 World Cup qualifier demonstrated both individual brilliance and team dominance. With goals from Skelly and Kane, England will look to build on this performance as they continue their World Cup journey.
