First a golden cap, then two goals in golden shoes: Harry Kane played the undisputed leading role before and after kick-off in his 100th international match for England.
With his goals number 67 and 68 in the national jersey, the captain almost single-handedly led the Three Lions to a 2-0 (0-0) win against Finland in the Nations League – and gave himself the most beautiful presents for the anniversary.
The FC Bayern striker first hit the crossbar with a shot from 14 meters (57th minute), then he successfully completed an impressive combination (76th minute) and rewarded the European runners-up for their clear superiority. This was the second victory in the second game under interim coach Lee Carsley. In his debut, Gareth Southgate’s successor celebrated a confident 2-0 win in Ireland. In Group B2, England is second with six points behind Greece, which won 2-0 (0-0) in Ireland.
In the pouring rain at Wembley Stadium, Kane, named Europe’s top scorer two weeks ago, wore golden boots, accompanied by his two daughters. His wife Katie was also on the pitch when he received a golden cap from Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole before kick-off for his 100th “cap”, as appearances for the national team are called in England.
Long-time Chelsea players Lampard and Cole are two of the nine players who have played more times for the Three Lions than Kane. Goalkeeper Peter Shilton tops the list with 125.
The first header assist came in the fourth minute, and the first shot attempt came in the eighth minute – the player who was celebrating his birthday made a strong start, but his first shot on goal was stopped by Leverkusen keeper Lukas Hradecky (21′). The ball was in the net, but the 31-year-old was a few centimetres offside when he headed the ball after a cross from Bukayo Saka (23′). Hradecky also parried a free kick from the edge of the penalty area (54′), but was powerless three minutes later. The Munich player also gave the goalkeeper no chance when the score was 2-0. Kane’s substitution (80′) was accompanied by a standing ovation.
Source: www.sport.de
