England player ratings: Angel Gomes and Trent Alexander-Arnold shine in Wembley win
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England overcame a determined Finland at Wembley, securing a 2-0 victory that keeps their flawless start to the Nations League underway under new interim coach Lee Carsley.
On his 100th match representing his country, Harry Kane netted two goals while donning golden boots, after receiving a golden cap just before the game started.
Here’s how the English players were assessed.
Jordan Pickford, 5: He nearly lost the ball to Teemu Pukki early on after making an unnecessary touch, but it was a mostly uneventful evening for him.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, 8: He had a great time playing in a free role from the right-back position, delivering some accurate passes. His standout moments included the key pass that set up Kane’s second goal and a beautiful through-ball for Eberechi Eze just minutes before. Defensively, it wasn’t a challenging night, but his performance showcased his exceptional skill and technique.
Ezri Konsa, rated 6: He made several key defensive plays and delivered a great pass that split two defenders, setting up Saka’s run in the first half. He was substituted after an hour due to an injury.
John Stones, 6: He displayed poise and control when handling the ball.
Rico Lewis, 6: He effectively blocked Pukki's chance to score during the first half and showed good judgment with the ball.
Angel Gomes, 8: From deep on the field, he skillfully connected the play and was always on the lookout to send forward passes during his first senior start for England. The Lille midfielder demonstrated his technical skills, and a crucial tackle in the first half to halt a counter-attack highlighted his more aggressive side as well.
Declan Rice, 6: Had a terrible air kick at the beginning, but aside from that, he delivered a reliable, though not particularly remarkable, performance as a midfielder.
Jack Grealish, 6: He was lively and upbeat, always aiming to push forward whenever he received the ball, but he fell short when it came to making an impact in the attacking zone.
Anthony Gordon, rated 7: He sliced through his defender with several impressive dribbles.
Bukayo Saka, 7: He made some smart runs beyond the Finnish defense but struggled to connect with the final pass.
Harry Kane, wearing the number 9 jersey, had a goal ruled out in the first half due to being marginally offside, but that didn’t deter the captain—who donned golden boots for his 100th match—from finding the net. His first goal was not only well constructed but also expertly executed, while his second was skillfully positioned.
Substitutes: Colwill received a rating of 5; Eze was also rated 5; Madueke earned a 6; Guehi had a rating of 5; and Bowen scored a 6.
