Harry Kane Scores Winner on Record-Breaking Night as England Beat Croatia

Harry Kane marked his record-breaking 126th England appearance with the winning goal as Thomas Tuchel’s side defeated Croatia 2-1 at Wembley Stadium on Thursday evening, securing their place in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals.

The England captain surpassed Peter Shilton’s long-standing appearance record before scoring his 92nd international goal from the penalty spot in the second half. Morgan Rogers had opened the scoring for the Three Lions before Petar Sučić equalised for Croatia, but Kane’s winner ensured England took all three points ahead of Sunday’s meeting with Spain.

Kane Becomes England’s Most-Capped Men’s Player

It was a historic evening for Kane, who became England’s most-capped men’s international player after making his 126th appearance, moving ahead of former goalkeeper Peter Shilton’s record of 125 caps.

The Bayern Munich striker was honoured with a special presentation before kick-off, with Shilton and Prince William presenting the England captain with commemorative gifts to recognise his achievement.

Croatia captain and former Tottenham teammate Luka Modrić also participated in the celebrations, while Kane presented his recently won Ballon d’Or trophy to the Wembley crowd.

Having become the first Englishman to win the Ballon d’Or in 25 years last month, Kane has now added another major individual achievement to his career. The former Tottenham striker is already England’s all-time leading goalscorer and has extended his international tally to 92 goals.

England Beat Croatia 2-1 at Wembley

England entered Thursday’s Nations League fixture looking to build on their emphatic 7-0 victory over Croatia in October, although the visitors provided considerably tougher opposition on this occasion.

Tuchel’s side broke the deadlock in the 24th minute through Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers. Kane played an excellent diagonal pass into the penalty area for Jude Bellingham, whose first-time delivery found Rogers to finish from close range.

England controlled much of the first half without creating many clear opportunities, heading into the interval with a narrow advantage.

However, Croatia equalised in the 59th minute following a defensive mistake from Jarell Quansah. The England defender attempted to head the ball back towards goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, but Petar Sučić intercepted the pass and scored from close range.

The hosts responded just five minutes later when Quansah was brought down inside the penalty area by Ivan Smolčić. Following a VAR review, referee Morten Krogh awarded England a penalty, giving Kane the opportunity to mark his record-breaking appearance with another international goal.

The England captain made no mistake, converting his spot-kick in the 64th minute to restore England’s lead and score his 92nd goal for the national team.

Croatia continued to threaten in the closing stages, with Nikola Vlašić firing narrowly wide and Ante Budimir missing a late headed opportunity.

James Garner also had an effort disallowed for offside, but England held on to secure their place in the Nations League quarter-finals.

England Prepare for Spain Nations League Decider

England’s victory confirms their qualification for the Nations League quarter-finals in March 2027, although Tuchel’s side still have an opportunity to finish top of Group A3.

The Three Lions will travel to Madrid to face Spain on Sunday, 15th November, in their final group-stage fixture of the competition.

Spain currently sit three points ahead of England, meaning Tuchel’s side must win to draw level on points, with goal difference potentially deciding the final standings.

England will also be looking to avenge September’s narrow defeat against the reigning world champions at Wembley.

For Kane, Sunday’s match presents another opportunity to extend his international appearance and goalscoring records as he continues his pursuit of 100 England goals.

Having won the Ballon d’Or, become England’s record appearance holder and secured qualification for the Nations League quarter-finals, the England captain will now be hoping to help his country challenge for silverware in 2027.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who scored for England against Croatia?

Morgan Rogers opened the scoring in the 24th minute before Harry Kane converted a penalty in the 64th minute to secure England’s 2-1 victory. Petar Sučić scored Croatia’s equaliser.

How many England appearances has Harry Kane made?

Harry Kane has made 126 appearances for England’s senior men’s national team, surpassing Peter Shilton’s previous record of 125 caps against Croatia on Thursday, 12th November 2026.

How many goals has Harry Kane scored for England?

Harry Kane has scored 92 international goals for England, extending his record as the country’s all-time leading men’s goalscorer.

Have England qualified for the Nations League quarter-finals?

Yes, England secured their place in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals following their 2-1 victory over Croatia. The knockout stage will take place in March 2027.

Who do England play next?

England face Spain on Sunday, 15th November 2026, in Madrid for their final UEFA Nations League Group A3 fixture.