Kane matches Shilton’s England cap record as captain adds Nations League milestone
Harry Kane and Peter Shilton stood on opposite sides of a historic moment on 6 October 2026 at Wembley: the former equalled the latter’s all‑time England appearance record, while the veteran sent a video tribute that underscored the achievement.
Record‑breaking appearance
Kane, 33, stepped onto the pitch against the Czech Republic in the Nations League, bringing his total to 125 caps and matching Shilton’s long‑standing mark. The England captain is already the nation’s record scorer with 89 goals, and the appearance added a further record – the most caps earned as England captain, now 92.
His debut came in 2015 against Lithuania, where he replaced Wayne Rooney and headed a goal within 80 seconds. That instant impact foreshadowed a career that has taken him to two European Championship finals and a World Cup semi‑final.
Shilton’s tribute and Kane’s reflections
In a video message, Peter Shilton congratulated Kane, saying, “I would just like to congratulate you on equalling my caps record for England… you will go on and beat it in November.” He added that the striker’s dedication makes him a potential record‑setter “that will never be beaten”.
Kane, speaking to ITV before the match, described the night as “special” and urged his teammates not to take it for granted. He recalled waiting on the sideline for his debut, “just as I dreamt it – coming on and scoring and it was the start of something special.”
The Three Lions entered the Nations Championship with confidence, with Kane noting the team’s proximity to a major trophy: “We have been extremely close to a trophy for a while now. I think we are closer than we have ever been.”
Lewis Browning reported the milestone on 6 October 2026, highlighting that Kane’s 125th cap came at Wembley, the venue of the Nations League fixture against the Czech Republic.
Beyond the caps, Kane holds several other England records: the quickest player to reach 100 caps in nine years and 167 days, the most goal contributions at major tournaments with 21 goals and four assists, and the record World Cup scorer with 14 goals, surpassing Gary Lineker’s ten.
Shilton’s message concluded with well‑wishes for the evening’s game, “good luck for tonight… I am sure we will get a good result,” reinforcing the camaraderie between past and present England greats.