Harry Kane Breaks England Appearance Record With Winning Goal Against Croatia

England captain Harry Kane has made history by becoming the country’s most capped men’s international footballer after making his 126th appearance for the Three Lions in their 2-1 victory over Croatia in the UEFA Nations League.

The Bayern Munich striker achieved the milestone on Thursday, November 12, at Wembley Stadium, surpassing former England goalkeeper Peter Shilton, who previously held the record with 125 appearances between 1970 and 1990.

Kane marked the historic occasion in style by scoring the winning goal from the penalty spot, taking his international goal tally to 92. He also played an important role in England’s opening goal, providing the pass that led to Morgan Rogers putting the hosts ahead in the first half.

The occasion was celebrated before kick-off, with Prince William and Shilton presenting Kane with a commemorative shirt and special recognition for his achievement. Croatia captain Luka Modrić also joined the celebrations, presenting a gift to Kane, who previously played alongside him at Tottenham Hotspur.

Kane’s four children accompanied him onto the pitch, while supporters displayed a large tribute banner at Wembley in honour of the England captain. The celebrations came less than three weeks after he won the 2026 Ballon d’Or, becoming the first Englishman since Michael Owen in 2001 to receive the prestigious award.

England started the match strongly, with Rogers opening the scoring in the 24th minute after a move involving Kane and Jude Bellingham. Croatia responded in the second half when Petar Sučić capitalised on a defensive mistake to equalise in the 59th minute.

However, England regained the lead five minutes later after a VAR review awarded the hosts a penalty. Kane stepped forward and converted confidently in the 64th minute, securing the victory and completing his record-breaking night.

The result also confirmed England’s qualification for the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals scheduled for March 2027. Thomas Tuchel’s side will now turn their attention to Sunday’s meeting with Spain, with the opportunity to challenge for the top position in Group A3.

Following the match, Kane described the achievement as a special moment but emphasised that winning the game made the occasion even more meaningful. He also expressed his ambition to reach 100 international goals, a target that would further strengthen his place among England’s greatest players.

At 33, Kane continues to add to an international career that began in March 2015. Having already established himself as England’s all time leading goalscorer, his latest achievement places him alone at the top of the country’s appearance record, adding another landmark to his remarkable career.