Harry Kane Set to Break England Men’s Cap Record Against Croatia
Harry Kane is poised to break the appearance record for the Peter Shilton record for the England men’s football team after he was named in the starting line-up for their match against Croatia in the Nations League tonight at Wembley.
Thomas Tuchel confirmed at his pre-match press conference on Wednesday that his captain Kane would start, a decision solidified when the team line-ups were revealed 75 minutes prior to kick-off.
Tonight marks the 33-year-old’s first game for England since he received the Ballon d’Or last month, and it will serve as his record 126th cap, surpassing Shilton.
Harry Kane will break the England men’s cap record this evening (Getty)
The legendary goalkeeper will present Kane, who also holds the record for the most goals with 91 for the Three Lions, with his cap at Wembley. Additionally, there will be a pre-match ceremony to celebrate Kane’s Ballon d’Or victory, featuring a parade of the trophy around the pitch in front of fans.
This event is expected to foster a celebratory atmosphere for Kane, regarded by many as England’s greatest player. However, Tuchel cautiously addressed the question of whether Kane is indeed the best, stating, “I don’t know, but he is up there of course,” during his press conference.
Tuchel emphasized Kane’s impressive collection of prizes and records, noting that he would further expand on these achievements. “Tomorrow he will start as captain of course. It’s a significant moment to present the Ballon d’Or to our fans, coinciding with him reaching his all-time record of 126 matches. It’s truly a beautiful occasion,” Tuchel remarked.
He also highlighted the importance of the match, explaining, “It is not a friendly; it is a Nations League match. There will be much praise and emotion before kick-off, and we need him at his best to secure the win.”
Kane will also parade his Ballon d’Or trophy (AFP/Getty)
In their previous encounter during the last international break, England dominated Croatia with a 7-0 victory and now requires just one point to secure their place in the Nations League quarter-finals scheduled for March. They will also face world champions Spain in their final group game on Sunday, with a chance to top the group should they succeed in both matches.
