Tirana, Albania – England completed their World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign in stunning fashion, securing a 2-0 victory against Albania and finishing the group stage with a perfect record of eight wins and zero goals conceded. Harry Kane's late brace sealed the win in a match where Albania proved to be a stern test for the Three Lions.
The match, played at Arena Kombetare in Tirana, saw England facing a determined Albanian side that had already secured a playoff spot. Despite England already having qualified for the World Cup with two matches to spare, coach Thomas Tuchel was keen to end the year on a high note.
The first half was a tightly contested affair, with Albania making life difficult for England. Albania not only defended resolutely but also began to create attacking opportunities. Arber Hoxha proved to be a particular threat, forcing England goalkeeper Dean Henderson into making two important saves. England also had their chances, with Declan Rice forcing a save from Albanian goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha early in the match.
Tuchel recognized the need for a change and introduced Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka into the match. The substitution proved to be a game-changer as Saka's corner in the 74th minute was flicked on, allowing Kane to pounce and break the deadlock. The England captain's goal marked his 77th international goal, equaling Pele's record.
Kane wasn't finished there. In the 82nd minute, he sealed the victory with a header from a pinpoint cross by another substitute, Marcus Rashford. The goal was Kane's second of the match and further cemented England's lead.
With the 2-0 victory, England completed Group K with a flawless record: eight wins, 22 goals scored, and zero conceded. This historic achievement marks the first time a European team has won every World Cup qualifier, playing at least six matches, without letting in a goal. England finished the group stage with the maximum possible 24 points, well ahead of second-placed Albania, who finished with 14 points.
Jude Bellingham, who was in the starting lineup, played 83 minutes and was one of his team's standout performers. Tuchel made seven changes for the final fixture of 2025, including handing Bellingham his first start since June and a debut to Jarell Quansah.
The victory in Tirana marks a satisfying end to 2025 for Thomas Tuchel and the England team. After tweaks and some streamlining, Tuchel has established a clear playing identity. While bigger tests lie ahead in the World Cup, England's dominant qualifying campaign has undoubtedly boosted their confidence and sent a strong message to their rivals.
