Kane celebrates form in England, Tuchel on Copa spot win | OneFootball

With two goals from Harry Kane, England defeated Latvia 5-0 this Tuesday and became the first European team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. With the victory, the 'Three Lions' reached 18 points at the top of Group K in the Qualifiers and, with two rounds remaining in the competition, cannot be caught by their opponents.

England secured qualification with impressive numbers, having won all six matches they played, scoring 18 goals and conceding none.

The English, finalists in the last two European Championships, are looking to break a title drought that dates back to the 1966 World Cup, and their performance in the Qualifiers places them as one of the favorites in next year's World Cup.

Decisive Kane

Harry Kane practically decided the match by scoring twice before halftime. First, the Bayern Munich striker received the ball in the area and struck firmly with his left foot, leaving the goalkeeper no chance. Then, he scored his 21st goal in 13 matches this season for club and country from the penalty spot.

“The numbers are there, of course, but I also think about how I feel on the field, the way I see the passes, the runs, and physically, I'm in good shape,” Kane said after the match.

Photo: Gints Ivuskans / AFP

Pressure Game

Meanwhile, coach Thomas Tuchel attributed England's victory to the aggressive and high-pressure style of play of the English.

“We played very aggressively, with a lot of pressure. We made it a very physical game, which is very demanding, but it motivates everyone,” highlighted Tuchel.

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