Harry Kane scores brace as England finish perfect World Cup qualifying

Harry Kane scored both goals as England beat Albania 2-0 in Tirana on Sunday evening. The Three Lions had already secured their place at the 2026 World Cup back in October but rounded off their qualification campaign in style with an eighth win from eight. It also made history as England became the first European team to complete World Cup qualifying without dropping a single point and without conceding a single goal (22-0).

Excited for “a big 2026”

“It was an important win. You don’t want to end the year on a loss and then have to wait till March to play again. We can now head back home and enjoy this win,” said Kane after his late brace settled a generally even match. “We’re excited for a big 2026,” the Three Lions captain added, looking ahead to next year’s finals in Canada, Mexico and the USA.

Olise and Upamecano rested

While Kane got to lead out Thomas Tuchel’s team for the last game of qualification, club teammates Michael Olise and Dayot Upamecano were afforded a rest by Didier Deschamps on Sunday as France – also already assured of their place in North America next summer – rounded off their campaign with a 3-1 win in Azerbaijan.

Several Bayern players were previously in action on Saturday: