Harry Kane breaks 36-year record and delivers England win at Wembley

Harry Kane, the newly crowned Ballon d’Or winner, who on Thursday evening played his 126th international and thereby broke Peter Shilton's 36‑year‑old record, delivered England at Wembley the winning goal against Croatia, after which Thomas Tuchel's side secured the 2‑1 victory and thereby confirmed their leading position in Group C of the Nations League.

How the match unfolded

Croatia took the lead after just 24 minutes when Jarrell Quansah forced a weak back‑pass from Jordan Pickford, after which Peter Sucic was able to tap it in from close range.

For the goal, Josko Gvardiol had deflected a cross from the flank, after which Morgan Rogers carried the ball further into the penalty area.

Shortly after the equaliser, England responded when Quansah again received the ball at eleven metres from a corner and Kane, who never fails, put the ball in the net for 1‑1.

England rely on Kane as they chase Spain in Nations League

Kane did not forget to score again shortly thereafter; almost immediately after the equaliser he received the ball at eleven metres and put England back on top with a cool‑blooded finish.

In the closing stages Croatia had two clear chances via Ante Budimir, but he could not find the net.

Implications for the Nations League

Meanwhile Spain beat the Czech Republic 0‑2, with Alex Baena scoring the first goal from the penalty spot and later Marc Pubil netting the second after a red card, while Jeremy Pino was sent off for offside.

Kane's 92nd strike lifts England in Nations League clash at Wembley

With the win England remain three points behind the group leader, but the victory keeps qualification for the Nations League quarter‑finals practically secure, as long as they do not suffer a heavy defeat against Croatia.