Harry Kane Approaches Historic Milestone in FIFA World Cup Knockouts

As England gears up for their round of 32 clash against DR Congo, Harry Kane is on the verge of a historic milestone. With one more goal, he could match Geoff Hurst's record for the second-most goals in FIFA World Cup knockout stages for England. Kane has already made his mark by becoming England's all-time leading scorer in World Cup history. England's impressive group stage performance has set the stage for their quest for a quarterfinal spot. Will Kane achieve this milestone? Read on to find out more about his journey and England's World Cup aspirations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 1, 2026, 19:54 IST

Kane on the Verge of History

As England prepares for their round of 32 match against DR Congo, striker Harry Kane is poised to make history. With just one more goal, he will match Geoff Hurst for the second-highest number of goals scored by an English player in FIFA World Cup knockout matches. England, having previously finished as runners-up in the last two Euro Championships and achieving fourth place in the 2018 World Cup and a quarterfinal exit in 2022, aims to secure a spot in the quarterfinals against DR Congo.

Kane's Goal-Scoring Record

According to Opta Analyst, Kane has netted three goals in FIFA World Cup knockout stages and needs one more to equal Hurst's tally of four. The record for the most knockout goals for England is held by Gary Lineker, who scored six. Kane's goal in the final group stage match against Panama marked his third of the tournament, bringing his total to 11 World Cup goals, surpassing Lineker to become England's all-time leading scorer in World Cup history. He has also accumulated 18 goals in major international tournaments, including the Euro Championship.

England's Group Stage Performance

Under the management of Thomas Tuchel, England concluded Group L with seven points, matching their best-ever World Cup group stage performance, previously achieved in 2006 and 2022, as noted by Opta Analyst. The team kicked off their campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia, followed by a goalless draw against Ghana, and secured the top position with a win over Panama.