Kane now ahead of Messi in World Cup history

Harry Kane etched his name deeper into football history on Wednesday night, scoring twice in England’s 4-2 victory over Croatia to break a World Cup record previously shared by Lionel Messi and move level with England’s all-time World Cup scoring leader.

The England captain opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 12th minute. Although Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livaković initially saved his effort, the penalty was ordered to be retaken after VAR ruled the goalkeeper had moved off his line before the kick. Kane made no mistake with the second attempt, giving England an early advantage.

The goal was Kane’s fifth successful World Cup penalty (excluding shootouts), making him the outright record-holder for the most penalty goals in World Cup history. He surpassed the previous mark of four shared by Lionel Messi, Eusebio, Gabriel Batistuta and Rob Rensenbrink.

The strike also made Kane only the second England player after David Beckham to score in three different World Cups, having found the net in the 2018, 2022 and 2026 editions.

Kane added his second goal in the 42nd minute, powering home a header to take his World Cup tally to 10 goals. In doing so, he matched the long-standing England record held by Gary Lineker, who also scored 10 World Cup goals during his international career.

Already England’s all-time leading scorer, Kane has now extended his remarkable international record to 81 goals for the Three Lions. The next-highest scorer, Wayne Rooney, finished his England career with 53 goals.

On a night when England strengthened their position in Group L with an impressive victory, Kane once again underlined his status as one of the greatest goalscorers in both English and World Cup history.