Soccer Football – FIFA World Cup 2026 – Group L – Panama v England – New York/New Jersey Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey, U.S. – June 27, 2026 England’s Harry Kane celebrates scoring their second goal with Jude Bellingham REUTERS/Jeenah Moon
Jude Bellingham described Harry Kane as the greatest player in England’s history after the Bayern Munich striker became England’s top goalscorer in World Cup history with a header against Panama at MetLife Stadium Saturday evening.
Kane moved onto three goals for the 2026 World Cup and 11 in his World Cup career with a 67th minute header against Panama, doubling England’s lead in a 2-0 win that saw them finish top of Group L.
It also marked a record 82nd goal for England, with Wayne Rooney’s 53 goals a distant second place.
Bellingham, who scored England’s first goal against Panama before setting up Kane for the history-making second, described the England captain as the best player to ever play for the Three Lions.
“It’s an honor to play with him,” Bellingham said. “For me, he’s the greatest England player of all time. He’s the one who showed up more than anyone, more than any other England player.”
Bellingham also credited his captain for consistently being able to make a difference on the biggest stage and for his killer instinct in front of goal.
“He’s at a level right now that’s just incredible. You just don’t doubt him,” Bellingham said. “You know he’s going to make a difference in the game and he did it today.”
England manager Thomas Tuchel described Kane as a “fantastic teammate” and said England players are delighted that the Bayern Munich striker broke the record on Saturday.
“Everyone is happy for him,” Tuchel said. “He’s loved by everyone, respected by everyone, that makes him very special.”
Jordan Henderson also gushed over Kane’s record-setting goal, adding that it meant “everything” to the England players.
“He’s just continually smashing records everywhere he goes and scores so many goals,” Henderson said. He’s been an incredible player so far for England and he’s still got a long way to go. He deserves everything he gets. He’s been an incredible player, incredible teammate, and (I’m) delighted for him to be able to get that record.”
Henderson made history himself on Saturday when he subbed in for Elliot Anderson in the 84th minute, becoming the first England man to appear at four different World Cups.
