ECQ: Kane breaks England record in Italy
Italy 1 - 2 England
Harry Kane became England's record goalscorer as they opened their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign with an away win against Italy.
Kane wrote his name into the history books in the 44th minute when he beat Gianluigi Donnarumma from the penalty spot for his 54th England goal.
Declan Rice had earlier given England an early lead when he scored from close range after Kane's shot was blocked before the captain put his name in the record books.
Italy whistled off at half-time in their first international in Naples for a decade, improved as England became sloppy.
England dominated the first half but struggled in the second.
Southgate's side were in total control during the first 45 minutes. The only negative was a dreadful miss by Jack Grealish that would have made it 3-0. It would have allowed England to avoid the anxious second half.
The away side then conceded control after the break and Italy looked like more of the side that had become European champions in the summer of 2021. This was further helped by a goal from Mateo Retegui, as he took advantage of some poor work from the England defence.
This drop in performance was further compounded by Luke Shaw's second yellow card with 10 minutes left but they hung on for a vital win.
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What did the fans and players say?
When Wayne Rooney became England's record goalscorer back in 2015, Harry Kane was the first to celebrate with him.
— B/R Football (@brfootball) March 23, 2023
Eight years later and he's broken Rooney's record 👏 pic.twitter.com/p4jh3lH1Lk
Harry Kane's record-breaking moment was a key discussion point for the England fans.
James was in Naples for the match, he told us: "The calm demeanour, the sharp exhale, the run-up and clinical finish. Even though he missed that one against France, you just knew he was going to score this one. It was the more traditional penalty routine from Harry Kane. He deserves this record."
Peter added: "That was such a great moment, he deserved it after what he went through at the World Cup."
Harry Kane tweeted: "Too many people to thank who have helped me on the way to this record. Family, teammates, coaches, fans - all a massive part of breaking the record and I can't thank you enough. Couldn't have done it without you."
We also spoke with several Italy fans through different social networking platforms. Lui said: "That first half was awful. The second 45 minutes was a lot better from us. However, I fear we face a battle to qualify for Euro 2024. The next few games will be very important."
