England completed their World Cup qualifying campaign without allowing a single goal while securing an eighth consecutive victory after Harry Kane netted twice in a 2-0 triumph over Albania in Tirana. The Bayern Munich striker converted a set piece before adding a headed finish to reach 78 international goals, capping a historic run that saw Thomas Tuchel's squad become the first European nation to navigate at least six qualifiers with perfect results and a clean sheet.
The Three Lions amassed 22 goals across their qualification matches and extended their unbeaten streak in World Cup qualifiers to 39 contests. Dean Henderson made critical saves to preserve the shutout before Kane broke through late, first tapping in after goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha fumbled a corner delivery, then powering home Marcus Rashford's cross.
Tuchel's side finished the calendar year with nine wins from 10 matches, marking their strongest annual performance since 1946. The German manager will learn his team's group stage opponents following the draw in Washington next month.
The Three Lions amassed 22 goals across their qualification matches and extended their unbeaten streak in World Cup qualifiers to 39 contests. Dean Henderson made critical saves to preserve the shutout before Kane broke through late, first tapping in after goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha fumbled a corner delivery, then powering home Marcus Rashford's cross.
Tuchel's side finished the calendar year with nine wins from 10 matches, marking their strongest annual performance since 1946. The German manager will learn his team's group stage opponents following the draw in Washington next month.
