Kane hails England squad as one of their best ever
LONDON – England captain Harry Kane said the national team is entering the 2026 World Cup cycle with one of the strongest squads in its history after completing a flawless qualifying campaign with a 2-0 win over Albania.
Kane, 32, scored both goals as England closed out Group K with eight wins from eight, finishing the campaign with 22 goals scored and none conceded. The Bayern Munich striker said the depth and balance within the squad leave England among the favourites for next year’s tournament.
“It’s as good as we’ve ever had,” Kane told ITV, noting the quality in both the starting XI and the bench. “We’re going to go into the tournament as one of the favourites, and we have to accept that. We’ve been like that for the last few tournaments.”
England have progressed steadily under their new coach, and Kane said the squad has “set the standard” over recent international camps. He added that ending the year with a victory was important ahead of the long break before March fixtures.
The win over Albania confirmed one of the most dominant qualifying performances in European history. England became only the second European nation to complete a World Cup qualifying cycle with a 100% record and no goals conceded, matching Yugoslavia’s achievement in the 1954 qualifiers.
Kane’s form and leadership remain central to England’s plans for 2026, with the striker continuing to be a focal point in a system built on control, pressing structure, and efficiency in both penalty areas. The squad depth — highlighted by competition in midfield and wide attacking roles — reinforces England’s belief that they can challenge deep into the tournament.
With qualification secured in emphatic fashion, England will enter the new year with heightened expectations and renewed confidence as preparations for the World Cup intensify.