Harry Kane marked his record 126th appearance for England with the winning goal as the Three Lions beat Croatia 2-1 in the UEFA Nations League at Wembley on Friday.
The England captain scored from the penalty spot in the second half to secure his team’s place in the quarter-finals. Morgan Rogers had given England the lead before Petar Sucic equalised for Croatia.
Kane became England’s most capped player, moving past former goalkeeper Peter Shilton. He also took his international goal tally to 92.
England started the match brightly and took the lead in the 24th minute. Kane sent a fine pass to Jude Bellingham, who crossed for Rogers to score from close range. Croatia struggled to create chances in the first half, but England also failed to build on their early lead.
The visitors found their way back into the match in the 59th minute after a mistake from Jarell Quansah. The England defender tried to head the ball back to goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, but Sucic intercepted it and scored the equaliser.
England responded quickly and won a penalty just four minutes later. Ivan Smolcic pulled down Quansah inside the box during a corner, and the referee awarded the spot kick after a VAR review.
Kane stepped up in the 64th minute and calmly converted to restore England’s lead. Croatia pushed for another equaliser in the closing stages. Nikola Vlasic wasted a good chance in the 82nd minute, while Ante Budimir headed over from a corner in added time.
James Garner also thought he had scored England’s third goal, but the referee ruled it out for offside.
Despite the victory, England struggled to control the match for long periods. Thomas Tuchel’s side lacked the attacking sharpness they had shown in their 7-0 win over Croatia last month.
Kane, meanwhile, enjoyed a memorable evening after receiving a special tribute before the match.
“It was incredible. Everything was amazing. Thank you to everyone who organised the build-up, with the tifo and presentations,” Kane said.
“These occasions feel much better when you win and now I can take a breath and enjoy this.”
The victory secured England’s place in the Nations League quarter-finals and kept their hopes of winning Group A3 alive.
They will face group leaders Spain in Madrid on Monday, with the winners set to finish top and earn a seeded place in the quarter-final draw.
