England captain Harry Kane marked his 100th cap with two stunning goals as England defeated Finland in the UEFA Nations League at Wembley.
Before kick-off, Kane was presented with a golden cap to celebrate the milestone and wore golden boots, which he used to great effect to break down a resilient Finland side.
England had struggled to convert possession into goals, with Kane twice denied by Finnish keeper Lukas Hradecky and having a goal disallowed for offside.
However, he finally broke the deadlock with his 67th international goal in the 57th minute, receiving a clever pass from Trent Alexander-Arnold and firing a powerful shot past Hradecky.
Kane’s special night continued 14 minutes later when England debutant Noni Madueke set him up for another clinical finish, leaving Hradecky with no chance.
This marked a well-deserved reward for England’s improved second-half performance, securing interim manager Lee Carsley’s second win after their victory over the Republic of Ireland in Dublin on Saturday.
Kane deserves Wembley plaudits
On the night of his 100th cap, Harry Kane delivered a strong reminder of his quality, following a challenging summer at Euro 2024 in Germany.
At 31, Kane struggled during Euro 2024, where he appeared far from his best. England’s all-time top scorer seemed off the pace and lacking fitness, with a series of uninspired performances.
However, at Wembley, against a well-organised but modest Finland side, the Bayern Munich striker was a constant threat, with only goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky preventing him from finding the back of the net earlier in the match.
In the end, Kane prevailed in what had become a personal battle, sealing victory with two emphatic goals.
It was both a celebratory and emotional night at Wembley, with tributes paid to former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson, who recently passed away. Kane received his golden cap from Frank Lampard and a bouquet from Finland’s captain, Hradecky.
Aware of the criticism he faced after his disappointing Euro 2024 campaign, Kane’s two goals took his tally to 68 in 100 England appearances, proving he remains a formidable player as England moves into the post-Gareth Southgate era.
Carsley’s ideal start
Lee Carsley has emerged from his first two games as England’s interim manager with a perfect record, though this must be viewed in the context of victories over weaker opposition — a struggling Republic of Ireland and a moderate Finland.
Had England not secured wins in both matches, questions would have been raised, but six points from six is exactly what Carsley aimed for, avoiding any potential slip-ups.
These results will strengthen his case to become Gareth Southgate’s permanent successor, but full judgment should be reserved until England faces stronger opponents. Carsley has shown a determination to implement his own style, favoring a more dynamic approach and giving opportunities to younger players. Lille’s Angel Gomes earned his first start, while Chelsea’s Noni Madueke made his debut as a substitute.
Although England struggled to create chances in the first half, they gained control as Finland began to tire, allowing captain Harry Kane to shine on his milestone night.
Player of the Match: A. Gordon.