Harry Kane Set to Become England’s Most-Capped Men’s Player Against Croatia

England captain Harry Kane is set to make history against Croatia at Wembley Stadium on Thursday evening, with the Bayern Munich striker in line to become the most-capped player in England men’s football history.

The 33-year-old is currently level with legendary goalkeeper Peter Shilton on 125 international appearances, but is set to move clear when he earns his 126th cap in England’s UEFA Nations League clash with Croatia.

England Head Coach Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that Kane will start and captain the Three Lions, with the occasion also set to feature a special presentation recognising the striker’s recent Ballon d’Or triumph.

Kane, who won the prestigious individual award in October, will present the trophy to the Wembley crowd before kick-off, while Shilton will be involved in a separate ceremony recognising the England captain’s record-breaking achievement.

Thomas Tuchel Confirms Harry Kane Will Start Against Croatia

Speaking ahead of Thursday’s Nations League fixture, Tuchel confirmed that Kane would lead England out at Wembley, describing the occasion as a significant moment for both the player and the national team.

“He will start as a captain and it is a big occasion to present the Ballon d’Or trophy to our fans and bring it to the country,” Tuchel explained.

The England boss also stressed the importance of the fixture itself, with the Three Lions still competing for top spot in their Nations League group.

England currently sit second behind Spain and will be looking to secure another victory over Croatia, having beaten Slaven Bilic’s side 7-0 in the reverse fixture last month.

Despite that emphatic result, Tuchel expects a difficult contest at Wembley, particularly with Croatia looking to respond to their previous defeat.

Kane’s Remarkable England Career

Kane made his senior international debut against Lithuania in March 2015, scoring just 79 seconds after coming off the bench to replace Wayne Rooney.

More than 11 years later, the former Tottenham Hotspur striker is preparing to become England’s outright record appearance holder, surpassing Shilton’s long-standing total of 125 caps.

Kane has also established himself as England’s greatest goalscorer, having overtaken Rooney’s previous record of 53 international goals in March 2023.

The striker now has 91 goals for his country and has openly discussed his ambition to become the first England men’s player to reach 100 international goals.

Speaking about his upcoming appearance milestone, Kane said:

“To reach the number of caps that I have is a testament to all the stuff behind the scenes; all the dedication, all the time that maybe people don’t see that keeps me fit and healthy.”

The England captain added that the achievement would rank among the biggest milestones of his career, having represented his country at multiple major international tournaments.

Ballon d’Or Winner to Be Honoured at Wembley

Thursday’s fixture will also provide England supporters with an opportunity to celebrate Kane’s historic Ballon d’Or victory.

The Bayern Munich forward was named the world’s best player in October, becoming the first Englishman to win the award since Michael Owen in 2001.

His success followed another outstanding season for club and country, with Kane continuing to deliver consistently in front of goal while helping Bayern Munich win domestic silverware.

Kane’s Ballon d’Or trophy will be presented to England supporters before kick-off, alongside a separate ceremony honouring his 126th international appearance.

Despite his individual achievements, the England captain remains focused on winning further silverware, particularly a major international trophy with the Three Lions.

England Looking to Finish Nations League Group Strongly

Kane’s record-breaking appearance comes at an important stage of England’s UEFA Nations League campaign, with Tuchel’s side preparing for their final two group fixtures.

The Three Lions host Croatia on Thursday, 12th November, before travelling to Spain on Sunday, 15th November, for their final group-stage encounter.

England need just one point to guarantee a place in the Nations League quarter-finals, although finishing above Spain remains an objective for Tuchel’s side.

With Kane confirmed to start and another international record within reach, England will be hoping to mark their captain’s historic evening with three points at Wembley.

Kane’s record-breaking appearance comes at an important stage of England’s UEFA Nations League campaign, with Tuchel’s side preparing for their final two group fixtues

Frequently Asked Questions

How many England caps does Harry Kane have?

Harry Kane currently has 125 England appearances and is set to make his 126th against Croatia on Thursday, 12th November 2026, becoming the most-capped player in England men’s football history.

Who currently holds England’s appearance record?

Harry Kane currently shares the England men’s appearance record with former goalkeeper Peter Shilton, who made 125 international appearances. Kane will move clear of Shilton when he plays against Croatia.

Has Thomas Tuchel confirmed Harry Kane will start against Croatia?

Yes. Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that Kane will start and captain England against Croatia at Wembley Stadium in the UEFA Nations League.

Has Harry Kane won the Ballon d’Or?

Yes. Kane won the 2026 Ballon d’Or in October and is set to present the trophy to England supporters during a special pre-match ceremony at Wembley.

When is England vs Croatia?

England face Croatia on Thursday, 12th November 2026, at Wembley Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 7:45pm GMT.