There was no goal for England captain Harry Kane in Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final against Sweden but celebrations aplenty as the Three Lions booked their last-four spot with a 2-0 win.
It was a selfless performance by the Tottenham man, who underlined his importance to Gareth Southgate’s side despite not adding to his goal tally in Russia.
Goal threat
Kane sent a low shot wide in the 19th minute when the ball came to him just outside the box via Raheem Sterling – and it proved the only time the striker had an attempt on goal in the game.
Other contributions
Kane demonstrated his passing ability on a number of occasions as England probed, and used his strength to good effect when required. Also, something interesting to note with regard to the first goal was replays appearing to show the skipper having a word with Harry Maguire – perhaps dispensing advice – just before the delivery of the corner that the defender powerfully headed home.
End of the hot streak
This was Kane’s fourth appearance at the tournament and first in which he had failed to hit the net, as a six-game scoring run in internationals came to an end. With six goals in Russia, the Golden Boot race leader remains level at the top with Gary Lineker (Mexico 1986) in terms of most goals scored at a single World Cup by an England player.
Overall impact
Not the headline-maker on this occasion, but Kane certainly played his part in an impressive England display.
