Harry Kane's late brace secured a 2-0 victory for England against Albania in their final World Cup qualifying match in Tirana. With this win, England completed their World Cup qualifying campaign with a perfect record, winning all eight matches and not conceding a single goal.

The match, played on Sunday night, saw England struggle to break down a well-organized Albanian side for much of the game. Despite England already securing their place in the 2026 World Cup and Albania guaranteed a spot in the World Cup qualifying play-off round, the match was a competitive affair.

England manager Thomas Tuchel made seven changes to the starting lineup, giving opportunities to players like Jarell Quansah, who made his senior debut. The first half saw a rather experimental England side try to find cohesion, with Albania posing a greater threat than any other opponent in Group K. Albania's Arber Hoxha forced two good saves from England goalkeeper Dean Henderson.

The second half saw increased pressure from England, but Albania remained resilient until the 74th minute. A corner taken by substitute Bukayo Saka was flicked on by an Albanian defender, allowing Kane to pounce and score from close range. Kane's goal marked his 77th for his country.

With the deadlock broken, England continued to press, and in the 82nd minute, Kane scored again with a header from a Marcus Rashford cross. This secured the victory and a flawless qualification campaign for England. Kane almost secured a hat-trick late in the game, but his left-footed shot went just wide.

Several substitutions were made throughout the second half, with Elliott Anderson and Marcus Rashford coming on for Adam Wharton and Jarrod Bowen. Jude Bellingham was replaced by Morgan Rogers.

While the match was not Bellingham's best performance in an England shirt, Harry Kane's two goals ensured England finished their World Cup qualifying campaign in style. This victory marks England's eighth consecutive qualifying win and eighth clean sheet. It also makes them the first European side to win at least six World Cup qualifiers without conceding a goal.

England's journey to the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada next year has been impressive. They scored 22 goals and conceded none in their eight qualifying matches. Under Tuchel, England has shown genuine belief that they can win a major trophy.