Harry Kane Breaks Record in England’s Victory over Italy in Euro 2024 Qualifiers

Kane’s Penalty and Rice’s Goal Secure Win for England

Harry Kane made history as England defeated reigning champions Italy 2-1 in their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign opener in Group C. Kane, who missed a crucial penalty against France in the World Cup quarterfinals in December, made no mistake this time as he converted a penalty in the 42nd minute to become England’s record international goalscorer. Declan Rice opened the scoring for England after 13 minutes, with Kane providing the assist. The penalty, coupled with Rice’s goal, secured a first victory for England over Italy on Italian soil in 62 years.

Debutant Retegui Scores as Italy Dominate Second Half

Italy dominated the second half, with debutant Mateo Retegui scoring in the 56th minute to halve the deficit. However, England held on despite having Luke Shaw sent off for receiving two yellow cards. The hosts struggled to create clear chances, and suffered their first Euro qualifying defeat in 41 games.

A Perfect Response from England

England’s victory over Italy was a perfect response to their World Cup quarterfinal defeat to France, with Kane redeeming himself after his penalty miss. The win also meant that Gareth Southgate has racked up 50 wins as the national coach since taking the job in 2016.

Kane: “This Means Everything”

Harry Kane was elated after breaking the record for England’s record international goalscorer. “This means everything,” said Kane. “So excited to get back out there and put the England shirt back on. And it had to be a penalty of course. Once it hit the back of the net there was so much emotion. Just huge thanks to the players, staff and fans.”

Credit: https://supersport.com/football/general/news/987f0650-6de2-49a4-9f89-2b4437b2d225/kane-breaks-record-as-england-enjoy-rare-win-over-italy

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