World Cup 2026: Harry Kane makes history to become England’s leading scorer

Harry Kane became England’s all-time leading scorer at the World Cup, breaking Gary Lineker’s record with a goal in Saturday’s 2-0 win against Panama.

The Three Lions captain doubled his side’s lead in the second half with a superb header from Jude Bellingham’s cross.

With this goal, Kane’s overall tally in the World Cup reached 11 goals, surpassing Lineker’s total of 10 goals.

“It’s definitely something to be proud of,” Kane told BBC Sport.

“I said before the tournament that the World Cup is the biggest competition we play as professional footballers, so to reach 11 goals is a proud feeling.

“This is always difficult to accept. I want to enjoy this moment with the team, enjoy being at the top of the table.

“I never take these moments for granted. It’s another good milestone to reach and hopefully it won’t be the last milestone in this tournament.”

Lineker, who scored six goals at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico and four in Italy four years later, recently said Kane was “the greatest English striker we’ve ever had”.

Kane scored twice in England’s opening 4-2 win against Croatia, making him the second England men’s player to score in three different World Cups (Russia 2018, Qatar 2022 and North America 2026).

He joins former Manchester United midfielder David Beckham, who scored goals in the 1998, 2002 and 2006 World Cups.

Eight years ago, Kane won the Golden Boot award with six goals in Russia and scored two more goals in Qatar.

He has won three times in total so far this World Cup after helping England qualify for the last 32.