Tirana, November 16, 2025
The curtain has fallen on the European qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2026, and England has concluded its campaign in absolutely historic fashion. Against a resilient Albanian side in a tight match in Tirana, the national team snatched a 2-0 victory, courtesy once again of a brace from its emblematic captain, Harry Kane.
Beyond the three points, this success solidifies England’s status as a dominant force in Europe and grants them an unprecedented record: becoming the first European team to win every game in a qualification campaign (of at least six matches) without conceding a single goal!
Albania Holds Strong, Kane Breaks the Deadlock
Despite the stakes, the match scenario was far from a typical display of force from Thomas Tuchel’s men. Albania, who had already secured their playoff spot, showed remarkable tactical resistance, applying intense pressure and closing down spaces in midfield. The match remained locked at 0-0 until the 77th minute, with the Albanian defence successfully frustrating England’s attempts, particularly in the first half where England struggled to find their rhythm.
The battle was hard-fought, and the Three Lions often lacked fluidity in the final third. Albania, encouraged by its home crowd, even created a few dangerous chances early in the second half, forcing the goalkeeper (Dean Henderson, if he was the starter) to remain vigilant.
The X-Factor: The Inevitable Harry Kane
As often happens in moments of doubt or deadlock, the individual factor made the difference. Harry Kane once again proved his invaluable worth by scoring the breakthrough goal in the 77th minute, finally piercing the Albanian defence. A second, late goal sealed the 2-0 victory, providing a flattering scoreline for a team performance that, while solid, was not the most flamboyant.
Kane’s ability to score decisive goals, even when the collective performance is less inspired, is the primary reason for England’s incredible success in this qualifying cycle. For Tuchel, this victory, though tough, is confirmation that his squad possesses the resilience and individual talent necessary to win the matches that truly matter.
Confirmation of a Successful Campaign
For Albania, despite the defeat, this qualification campaign remains a resounding success. The team showed they could compete with the major nations, and today’s match, while a loss, validates their well-deserved place in the playoffs.
As for England, this victory completes a historic 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. The team finishes first in their group with an immaculate record: victories in every match and zero goals conceded. The focus now shifts to preparing for the World Cup, where expectations, based on this unprecedented qualifying performance, will be higher than ever.
England, therefore, heads to the 2026 World Cup not only qualified but having made history.
Good job! Congratulations.