Harry Kane described his first goal of Qatar 2022 as “perfect” and then looked forward to a “battle” with France as Gareth Southgate’s men booked their place in the World Cup quarter-finals.
Kane thumped home England’s second goal just before half-time after Jordan Henderson opened the scoring in a thumping win over Senegal which was completed by Bukayo Saka's third just before the hour mark.
“The ball sat up nicely, the connection was perfect,” smiled Kane, after breaking his tournament duck. “I’m a striker, whenever I score, I’m happy. Scoring is one of the best feelings in the world and, hopefully, this can be the start of a good run for me personally because I know that will help the team.
“We enjoy this one but our attention turns straight to the quarter-final against France - it’s going to be a great game. They’re reigning champions, it will be a good battle.”
Manager Southgate added: “Any centre-forward wants to be off the mark. Of course, for him (Kane) it stops all the questions. I think he started to find more space in the second half and his link play was better. Important for him and for us"
Southgate was keen to praise Henderson after his opening goal helped England find second gear after a difficult start to the game.
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Image:
AFP via Getty Images)“Hendo and (Jude) Bellingham were phenomenal,” said the England manager. “And what impressed me most overall was the ruthlessness of our execution and the way the team worked with and without the ball.”
Raheem Sterling had to miss the game to deal with ‘a family matter’ - believed to be an armed robbery at home - and it is unclear whether to not he will be available next weekend.
Kane said: “Our thoughts are with Raheem and his family. It’s a private matter and you never want to see one of your team-mates and friends have to deal with something like that. We send him our best.”
