After England opened the 2026 World Cup with a convincing 4-2 win over Croatia, captain Harry Kane said he believes he is playing the best football of his career at exactly the right time. Kane scored twice, taking his World Cup total to 10 goals and drawing level with England great Gary Lineker on the national team’s all-time World Cup scoring list. For England fans, that is a meaningful milestone, because Lineker remains one of the country’s most celebrated strikers.
Speaking after the match, Kane told Walla that reaching 10 World Cup goals was a major personal landmark. “It is a very significant milestone,” he said. “Getting to 10 goals in the World Cup is a special achievement. Gary had fantastic tournaments, so being at the same number of goals as him is definitely pleasing for me.” He added, “This is only the first game,” and said he felt “very good, both physically and mentally.”
Kane, 32, said he is no longer just a pure penalty-box striker. In the match, he was involved in England’s buildup, dropped deep to receive the ball, helped move possession and contributed to the team’s play. “I love scoring goals and always will,” he said, “but my strengths are not only scoring. I like being involved in the game, getting the ball, passing, running and helping the team.” He said that broader involvement also creates more scoring chances for him.
Kane also praised coach Thomas Tuchel, who has been widely discussed in English football since taking charge. Tuchel had spoken before the game about dreaming while staying grounded, and after the win his message appeared to be resonating. Kane said Tuchel told the team at halftime to relax and stop playing scared. “What is the worst that can happen? We lose a game. Then we lose and move on,” Kane quoted him as saying. England still faces a long road, but after years of pressure and fear of failure, Kane’s message was one of confidence and belief.
