England defeated Finland 2-0, with Harry Kane scoring twice to celebrate his 100th appearance, as the Three Lions maintain their winning streak under Lee Carsley.
Harry Kane marked his 100th cap for England in style, leading the Three Lions to a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Finland in the UEFA Nations League at Wembley Stadium.
The hosts were in control during the first half, boasting a staggering 77% possession. However, they struggled to penetrate a resolute Finnish defence, which effectively limited England’s chances to long-range efforts. Trent Alexander-Arnold was guilty of missing the target on two occasions, while Kane himself came close, having a header disallowed for offside and seeing another attempt thwarted.
The second half saw a shift in momentum, with England ramping up the pressure. After Anthony Gordon and Kane were both denied by Finnish goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky, it was Kane who finally broke the deadlock with a powerful strike just before the hour mark. This goal took the wind out of Finland’s sails, and Kane soon added a second, expertly set up by substitute Noni Madueke. This victory not only showcased Kane’s prowess but also maintained Lee Carsley’s perfect record as interim manager.
### TALKING POINT – Kane’s Moment in the Spotlight
Harry Kane’s international career has been nothing short of record-breaking, and on the night he celebrated his century of caps, he added yet another chapter to his illustrious story. The Bayern Munich forward was presented with a golden cap by Frank Lampard before kick-off, and after being thwarted multiple times, he finally found the net just before the hour mark.
It was a fitting tribute for a player who has now scored more goals for the Three Lions than anyone else in history. Kane’s second goal, his 68th for his country, further solidified his status as England’s all-time leading scorer before he was substituted to a standing ovation.
### PLAYER OF THE MATCH
Trent Alexander-Arnold (England) was the standout performer on the night. It remains a mystery why Gareth Southgate overlooked the Liverpool defender in previous matches, as he showcased his immense talent under interim boss Lee Carsley.
Alexander-Arnold was instrumental in breaking down the Finnish defence, providing a delightful reverse pass to release Bukayo Saka in the first half. He played a crucial role in both goals, with his assist for Kane’s opener and his involvement in the build-up to the second.
### PLAYER RATINGS
**ENGLAND:**
Pickford 6; Alexander-Arnold 8, Stones 6, Konsa 6, Lewis 7; Rice 6, Gomes 7; Saka 6, Grealish 6, Gordon 8; Kane 7.
**Subs:** Colwill 6, Madueke 7, Eze 6, Guehi n/a, Bowen n/a
**FINLAND:**
Hradecky 8; Stahl 7, Hoskonen 7, Ivanov 7, Uronen 6; Peltola 7, Kamara 7, Keskinen 6; Schuller 5, Pukki 6, Jensen 6.
**Subs:** Niskanen 6, Kallman 6, Lod 5, Antman 6, Walta n/a
### KEY MOMENTS
**23’ GOAL RULED OUT!** Kane thinks he has marked his century with a goal, but he is flagged offside after nodding home Saka’s cross.
**54’ KANE DENIED.** A stunning save from Hradecky denies Kane, who struck a powerful 22-yard free-kick towards the near post, only for the shot to be palmed away.
**57’ GOAL! ENGLAND 1-0 FINLAND (Harry Kane)** It has been coming, and what a moment for Kane! Cap 100 is crowned by goal 67, as he weaves past three defenders after receiving Alexander-Arnold’s pass and lashes a thumping effort into the roof of the net from just inside the box!
**76’ GOAL! ENGLAND 2-0 FINLAND (Harry Kane)** It’s that man again! Goal number 67 is swiftly followed by goal number 68, as Madueke slides a pass to Kane, who angles a gorgeous, whipped shot into the far corner without even needing to look up.
### KEY STATS
Kane’s performance not only highlighted his individual brilliance but also reinforced England’s growing confidence under Carsley’s stewardship. As the team looks ahead, they will be buoyed by this solid display and the continued evolution of their attacking prowess.