Croatia gives Bayern striker Kane a symbol ahead of the Nations League

Shortly before the Nations League duel between England and Croatia, the Croatian football association presented its long-time friend, Bayern striker Harry Kane, with a symbolic gift – a historic ball that is meant to embody the close connection between the two football cultures, while the match itself decided Kane’s record and the victory.

Symbolic Gift from Croatia

The Croatian football association and the national team presented Harry Kane on Thursday evening, shortly before the Nations League duel, with a special gift. Croatia’s captain Luka Modrić handed the FC Bayern striker a replica of a historic Croatian football, to honour the Ballon d’Or win and his record match for England.

On social media Croatia wrote: “Two remarkable achievements that stand for your extraordinary career and your legacy” and explained that in 1880 English industrialists brought the first football to Croatia and showed it to the people in Zupanja. It further said that they are proud to return a replica of the historic ball with this gesture and emphasized that it is a symbol of the eternal bond between Croatian and English football.

Kane’s Victory and Awards

At Wembley Stadium England took the lead in the 24th minute through Morgan Rogers of FC Chelsea.

Petar Sucic of Inter Milan brought Croatia level after just under an hour.

Shortly thereafter the newly crowned Ballon d’Or winner from FC Bayern converted the penalty in the 64th minute for a 2‑1 victory for England.

After the final whistle Kane told the BBC: “I try to soak up everything.”

Harry Kane celebrates record, England books Nations League quarterfinal

That made it his 126th international appearance, overtaking Peter Shilton and becoming England’s sole record holder for international appearances.

Kane said that breaking the record was a huge success and that the choreography, his four children and the celebrations were simply incredible for him.

The Bayern star, honoured with the Ballon d’Or in London at the end of October, reflected on a few crazy weeks that have taxed him emotionally, physically and mentally.

Team‑mate Morgan Rogers praised him in particular and said he is a Ballon d’Or winner because of his tireless attitude.

Before kickoff Kane also received the award as England’s record player, presented by Peter Shilton, the previous record holder.

England's VP plays Nations League duel against Croatia at 20:45

The fans organised a large‑scale choreography while Kane entered the field with his four children and presented the Ballon d’Or.

Rogers added that he must be given respect because he works tirelessly and therefore deserves the Ballon d’Or.

With the victory the English secured qualification for the Nations League final tournament in the coming spring.

Second place in Group 3 of League A is already secured, and a win in the final match in Spain could make the Three Lions group winners.