Harry Kane scored his ninth FIFA World Cup goal as England defeated Croatia 4-2 on June 17, 2026 [1], [2].
The victory provides England with a critical start to their Group L campaign and cements Kane's position as the nation's most prolific scorer. The match serves as a pivotal moment for manager Thomas Tuchel's tactical approach in the tournament.
The game took place at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, Texas [3], [4]. Kane notched a brace during the match, which included his ninth goal in World Cup competition [1], [2]. This performance brought his total career goals for England to 80 [1].
England's offensive pressure proved decisive throughout the contest. The team scored twice more following Kane's initial contributions to secure the 4-2 result [2], [3]. The win ensures England remains in a strong position within their group as the tournament progresses.
"I'm thrilled to be part of this moment and to add to my England tally," Kane said [1].
Manager Thomas Tuchel credited the squad's execution and persistence for the win. "We started well, kept the pressure, and the players delivered," Tuchel said [2].
While some reports suggest Kane has tied the England record for World Cup goals, other accounts indicate he has surpassed international benchmarks [2], [5]. A FIFA spokesperson noted the significance of the achievement. "Breaking the World Cup goal record is special for any player," the spokesperson said [5].
“"I'm thrilled to be part of this moment and to add to my England tally,"”
Kane's achievement of 80 international goals and his ninth World Cup strike places him in an elite tier of global strikers. By securing a win against Croatia in the opener, England establishes early momentum in Group L, reducing the pressure on subsequent matches and validating Thomas Tuchel's early management of the squad in the US.
