One hundred games, two more goals, and no doubt in his own ability.
Harry Kane played as England’s captain in his 100th international match on Tuesday against Finland in the UEFA Nations League at Wembley Stadium. He celebrated the milestone by scoring both goals in a 2-0 victory and received a standing ovation when he was substituted.
Kane, who had been criticized for his performances at Euro 2024, said he was particularly determined to prove he’s still a top striker.
“Whenever you’re doubted throughout your career, it makes you more hungry and determined to prove people wrong and prove to yourself that you can still play at a high level,” Kane told broadcaster ITV.
“I always back myself to score goals, especially in a team like this creating the chances we do. I am excited for the future.”
Before the match began, Kane was joined by his family as he received a commemorative golden cap from former players Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole, both of whom also played more than 100 times for England. Finland’s captain, Lukas Hradecky, presented him with a bouquet of flowers.
The Bayern Munich striker is the first England player to reach 100 caps since Wayne Rooney in 2014. At 31, and still one of the best strikers in soccer, Kane is on track to break former goalkeeper Peter Shilton’s record of 125 appearances for the national team.
Kane’s two goals against Finland brought his total to 68 career goals for England, extending his record to 15 more than Rooney, the next-highest scorer.
In his 100 games, Kane has played in two European Championship finals — one lost to Italy in 2021, the other to Spain this year — and a World Cup semifinal in 2018. That’s the closest England has come to winning a major trophy since the 1966 World Cup.
