Harry Kane Makes History as England Beat Croatia to Reach Nations League Quarter-Finals

Posted : 13 November 2026

Harry Kane marked a historic milestone in his England career with a decisive penalty as the Three Lions secured a 2-1 victory over Croatia at Wembley on Thursday, booking their place in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals.

The England captain became his country's most-capped men's international after making his 126th appearance, moving ahead of former goalkeeper Peter Shilton. Kane celebrated the occasion by scoring his 92nd international goal, extending his record as England's leading goalscorer.

Croatia approached the encounter determined to avoid another heavy defeat after suffering a 7-0 loss to England in their previous meeting in Rijeka last month. Slaven Bilic's side adopted a more cautious approach and made life difficult for Thomas Tuchel's team during the opening stages.

England initially struggled to establish control, with Elliot Anderson sending an effort over the crossbar in the 16th minute. Croatia also threatened through Josip Misic, whose attempt narrowly missed the target.

However, the hosts eventually found a breakthrough in the 24th minute through Chelsea midfielder Morgan Rogers. Kane initiated the attacking move with an excellent pass towards Jude Bellingham, who delivered the ball across the penalty area. Josko Gvardiol failed to deal with the danger, allowing Rogers to poke the ball beyond goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic.

England grew more confident following the opener and looked for another goal before the interval, but Croatia managed to prevent further damage.

The Three Lions continued to create opportunities after the restart, with Anthony Gordon and Kane both threatening to extend their advantage. However, Croatia found a way back into the contest in the 59th minute following a defensive mistake.

England defender Jarell Quansah attempted to deal with a corner but directed his header towards goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. Petar Sucic reacted quickly to the loose ball and finished from close range to restore parity.

England's response was immediate. Quansah was brought down inside the penalty area by Ivan Smolcic during a corner, prompting referee Morten Krogh to consult the pitchside monitor after initially allowing play to continue. Following the VAR review, a penalty was awarded.

Kane stepped forward in the 64th minute and confidently converted from the spot, sending the ball into the net for his 92nd England goal and restoring the hosts' lead.

Croatia refused to surrender and continued searching for another equaliser. Nikola Vlasic came close with an effort that narrowly missed Pickford's goal, while England thought they had scored a third through substitute James Garner. However, the goal was ruled out because Bellingham had been offside earlier in the move.

Despite some nervous moments towards the end, England managed to protect their advantage and secure an important victory.

Before kick-off, Kane received a special tribute at Wembley to celebrate his appearance record. A large banner featuring the 33-year-old and the words "England's Finest" was displayed, while Prince William and former record holder Peter Shilton took part in the presentation honouring the Bayern Munich striker.

The result guarantees England a place in the Nations League quarter-finals, which will take place in March. The Three Lions remain second in Group A3 behind Spain, who defeated the Czech Republic 2-0.

England will now travel to Madrid on Sunday for their final group fixture against Spain, with the opportunity to challenge for top spot ahead of the knockout stage.

Harry Kane Makes History as England Beat Croatia to Reach Nations League Quarter-Finals

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