Joyous Kane talks about 'magical moment' of breaking Rooney's record
Harry Kane expressed his delight in achieving a “magical moment” after becoming England’s top scorer in their 2-1 victory against Italy during their opening game of the Euro 2024 qualifiers
Kane scored a penalty just before half-time, which broke the record he previously shared with Wayne Rooney. Kane revealed that scoring more goals for England than any other player meant a lot to him.
scored his 54th goal for England during their Euro 2024 qualifying match against Italy, breaking Wayne Rooney’s record as England’s all-time leading goalscorer.
The captain’s goal, a penalty just before half-time, doubled England’s lead after Declan Rice had opened the scoring.
Italy’s Mateo Retegui scored on his debut, but England held on for a 2-1 victory, their first away win against Italy since 1961. However, Luke Shaw was sent off for a second yellow card in the 80th minute.
Tottenham’s record goalscorer told Channel 4:
“It means everything. We’re so excited to put the England shirt back on, get the campaign started for the Euros next year. It had to be a penalty, of course, but once it hit the back of the net there was so much emotion.
“It’s a magical moment. Thanks to everyone who’s helped me get to this stage. It’s a great night. We haven’t won in Italy for so long. To score, and win this game, is just special.”
Kane added:
“I was on the pitch when Wayne broke the record. I know what it meant to him and I was so proud of him. I remember when I presented him the boot for breaking the record, he said he would be giving it back to me one day. A special man.”
Rooney wasted no time in congratulating his former team-mate.
He posted on social media:
“Congratulations to @HKane on becoming @England’s all-time leading goalscorer. I knew it wouldn’t take long but that was quick. Great man, unbelievable goalscorer and an England legend. Congrats Harry.”
Kane’s missed penalty in the World Cup quarter-final defeat to France was a devastating experience for him. However, he believed it was crucial to demonstrate a positive reaction to that disappointment in the match against Italy.
He said:
“It was tough to finish in that way, but we spoke this week about getting back to it. We feel like we are one of the best teams in Europe.
“Coming here and putting in a performance like that today shows we are ready for the next challenge. We’ve got a difficult campaign ahead.”
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