The reported goal would make Kane only the second English player to score at three World Cups, joining David Beckham. Kane scored six times in 2018, added two goals in 2022, and has now reportedly opened his account at the 2026 World Cup.
That spread across three tournaments underlines his longevity at international level. Kane has remained England’s first-choice striker through different managers, tactical approaches and generations of teammates. The latest milestone is built on both consistency and responsibility: he remains the player trusted to take decisive penalties on the biggest stage.
The report says Kane’s strike took his World Cup tally to nine goals, leaving him one behind Gary Lineker’s England record of 10.
The gap is narrow, but the comparison carries weight. Lineker’s record has stood as the benchmark for England forwards at the World Cup, while Kane has already surpassed several previous expectations during his international career. Another goal would reportedly draw him level with the former England striker; two more would place Kane alone at the top.
The penalty also gave England an early advantage against Croatia in Group L, adding immediate competitive value to the personal achievement. Kane’s influence is measured not only by historic totals but by whether his goals move England deeper into the tournament.
England’s next group fixture will bring the focus back to qualification and momentum. Kane, meanwhile, will continue chasing Lineker’s record while strengthening a World Cup legacy that now spans three editions.