England captain Harry Kane marked his 100th senior international appearance in trademark fashion with both goals in his team's 2-0 victory over a feeble Finland side in Nations League Group B2 at Wembley on Tuesday. The 31-year-old striker, who received a golden cap before kick-off and sported a pair of dazzling golden boots, broke Finland's gritty resistance with a dipping right-footed strike in the 57th minute.
At times it appeared to be a battle between Kane and Finland's impressive keeper Lukas Hradecky on a wet London night with the stopper making several fine saves to deny the striker. But a razor-sharp Kane beat Hradecky again in the 76th minute, sweeping in another right-footed effort to take his England tally to a record-extending 68.
Kane, who also had a first-half header ruled out for offside, was given a standing ovation when he was substituted in the 80th minute. England's win was their second under interim manager Lee Carsley after the away victory over Ireland on Saturday and puts them joint top of their Nations League group with Greece.
England vs Finland: Player Ratings
Telegraph Sport analyses and rates each player’s performance.
Goalkeeper
Jordan Pickford 6/10
The goalkeeper did not have a single save to make as Finland failed to register a shot on target. Watched one effort curl wide.
Defenders
Trent Alexander-Arnold 8/10
John Stones 7/10
After 33 minutes, Stones had completed more passes (45) than Finland (41). Defended well when he had to.
Tyrone Mings 7/10
The Villa man made one very good first-half tackle when Finland threatened and picked up where he left off at the Euros. Went off after suffering an injury.
Rico Lewis 6/10
Given a chance in England’s problem position and did well to block a Pukki shot. Moved into midfield at every opportunity.
Midfielders
Bukayo Saka 6/10
Arsenal fans were not impressed to see him start a second game and when he was caught in possession by Keskinen, it resulted in a good chance for Finland .
Jude Bellingham 7/10
An accomplished debut for the midfielder who proves size really does not matter. Set up Kane to shoot with a ball that cut though Finland’s defence.
Phil Foden 6/10
Almost scored when his shot was deflected and caused problems with his pace, as he always does. Arsenal fans will have been pleased to see him taken off.
Jack Grealish 6/10
So influential against the Republic of Ireland, Grealish did not quite dictate England’s attacking play as he did in Dublin.
Forwards
Callum Wilson 7/10
Another lively performance from the Newcastle winger who looks like he has a point to prove after being benched for most of the Euros.
Harry Kane 9/10
Marked his 100th appearance with a golden cap, golden boots and two goal-den moments. Both goals came in the second half, the first of which was a brilliant finish.
Substitutes
Levi Colwill (for Konsa, 61) 6/10
Showed his versatility by coming on in the centre of defence after playing as a left-back in Dublin.
Noni Madueke (on for Saka, 66) 6/10
An England senior debut for the Chelsea winger, who set up Kane for his second goal.
Eberechi Eze (for Gordon, 66) 6/10
You could only feel sorry for the tiring Finland defenders when Eze was sent on to run at them.
Marc Guehi (on for Stones, 80) 6/10
Jarrod Bowen (on for Kane, 80) 6/10
England vs Finland: A Tactical Masterclass?
While the scoreline suggests a comfortable victory for England, the game itself was a tense affair. Finland, despite their recent struggles, put up a valiant fight. England struggled to break down their stubborn defence for much of the first half, with Kane having a goal disallowed for offside.
The turning point came in the 57th minute when Kane's powerful strike finally broke the deadlock. This goal seemed to knock the wind out of Finland's sails, and England began to dominate possession. The second goal, set up by a beautifully weighted pass from Alexander-Arnold, sealed the victory. It was a performance that displayed England's strength in depth, with many players impressing in their new roles.
A Glimpse into the Future?
Lee Carsley's appointment as interim manager has given England a fresh perspective. He has implemented a new style of play, with a strong emphasis on attacking football. The performance against Finland showed that this approach can be successful, particularly when England has a strong enough core of players to execute it.
It will be interesting to see how Carsley performs in the coming months. The question is: has England found a new manager in waiting? Only time will tell. However, one thing is for sure: this is a team with a lot of potential, and the future looks bright for English football.
The Verdict: A Night to Remember for Harry Kane
While England's performance was impressive, the night belonged to Harry Kane. His 100th cap was a milestone achievement, and he celebrated it in style with two goals. He continues to be England's talisman, and his ability to score goals at the highest level remains unquestionable.
This victory against Finland is a testament to England's talent and resilience. With a strong squad and a new manager at the helm, the Three Lions are poised for success. This is just the beginning of a new era for England, and one that promises to be exciting for fans across the nation.
