Explore the historic moment as Myles Lewis-Skelly shines in England’s 2-0 win against Albania. Read about the match’s key moments and player performances.
Introduction:
The Thomas Tuchel era as England manager began with a solid 2-0 victory over Albania, showcasing glimpses of the fast, high-intensity football he wants the team to embrace. Goals from Myles Lewis-Skelly on debut and Harry Kane secured a comfortable win at Wembley, in the UEFA European Qualifiers despite a spirited defensive effort from the visitors.
With England looking to fine-tune their squad ahead of the FIFA World Cup next year, Tuchel’s first match provided plenty of talking points, including Foden’s role on the right, Lewis-Skelly’s record-breaking debut, and Kane’s continued brilliance under his former Bayern boss. See also: Kane and Davies Shine as Bayern Dismantle Leverkusen 2-0
High-Pressing England Start on the Front Foot
From the opening whistle, England dictated the tempo, with Tuchel’s signature high-intensity press keeping Albania pinned in their half. Phil Foden, playing on the right wing in Bukayo Saka’s absence, looked sharp, cutting inside onto his preferred left foot to create chances.
Tuchel gave a nod of approval when England mixed up their approach, with Dan Burn attempting a raking long pass to Foden—a sign that direct play would be part of England’s arsenal under the new boss.
Meanwhile, Curtis Jones, deployed centrally, impressed with his quick feet and relentless pressing, which fit Tuchel’s high-energy philosophy perfectly.
Myles Lewis-Skelly’s Composed Debut Goal
Albania’s defenders stood firm, earning thunderous applause from their fans for a brilliant double block on Harry Kane in the first half. Their energy and resilience momentarily frustrated England, but Jude Bellingham’s vision finally unlocked their backline.
Spotting the run of Myles Lewis-Skelly, Bellingham played an inch-perfect pass, slicing through five Albanian defenders in one go. The 18-year-old debutant showed remarkable composure under pressure, holding off his marker and calmly slotting the ball between Thomas Strakosha’s legs.
The goal made Lewis-Skelly the youngest England player to score on debut, at just 18 years and 176 days old—a moment he will never forget.
“A dream start for Myles! What a pass from Jude. The future is bright!” England legend Gary Lineker tweeted moments after the goal.
Albania Threatens, but England’s Defense Stands Tall
Despite trailing, Albania did not retreat into its shell. Their energetic counterattacks forced England’s defenders to remain alert and disciplined. England debutant Dan Burn was outstanding at the back, heading and clearing everything in his path while showcasing smart positional awareness. Alongside him, Ezri Konsa made a crucial interception, preventing Albania from breaking through.
Albania’s best chance came in a chaotic sequence, with Strakosha saving a Bellingham header before Berat Djimsiti blocked Kane’s follow-up effort—a moment that kept the visitors within reach.
However, England’s defense held firm, ensuring Albania never found the breakthrough they sought.
Harry Kane’s Classic Finish Seals the Win
With England looking for a second goal, Declan Rice found himself in an advanced position on the right wing. He clipped a precise cross to Kane inside the left-hand side of the penalty area.
The England captain took a touch, adjusted his stance, and expertly placed the ball into the bottom-right corner, giving Strakosha no chance.
It was a typically composed finish from Kane, and a reminder of why Tuchel values him so highly. The German manager coached Kane at Bayern Munich, where he scored 36 goals in 32 Bundesliga games under Tuchel’s guidance.
“Harry is the ultimate No.9. He’s a striker who lives in the box, and his finishing is just top-class.” – Tuchel on Kane.
With the two-goal cushion, England controlled the remainder of the game, showing glimpses of the dominant, attacking side Tuchel hopes to build.
Key Takeaways from Tuchel’s First Match as England Boss
Myles Lewis-Skelly Steals the Show: The Arsenal youngster’s debut goal was a moment of pure joy and a sign of England’s promising future. His intelligent movement and finishing belied his age, and he may have just secured himself a permanent place in Tuchel’s plans.
England’s Defense Looks Solid Under Pressure: Despite Albania’s aggressive counters, England’s defense—led by debutant Dan Burn and Konsa—showed excellent positioning and resilience.
Kane and Bellingham Remain England’s Leaders: Both Kane and Bellingham were pivotal in England’s attack, with the Real Madrid star orchestrating the midfield and the Bayern striker delivering the killer blow.
High Press and Direct Play Are Here to Stay: Tuchel’s influence was evident in England’s pressing, quick transitions, and willingness to go direct—a tactical shift from previous managers.
Phil Foden’s Right-Wing Role Raises Questions: With Saka absent, Foden started on the right flank, but whether this is a long-term solution remains to be seen. While he looked sharp, some argue his best position is more central.
England’s Road to the World Cup Begins on a High: Tuchel’s England passed their first test, securing a 2-0 win that sets the tone for their World Cup qualification journey.
Next up?
A tougher challenge awaits as England prepares for sterner opposition. But with a blend of experience and youthful energy, the signs are promising. As for Lewis-Skelly, his debut heroics will be remembered for years to come—and if this performance is anything to go by, he’s just getting started.