England's Harry Kane recently scored two goals, helping his team to a 4-1 victory over Croatia in their opening Group L match of the 2026 World Cup. This achievement allowed the striker to equal legendary Gary Lineker's record of 10 World Cup goals for England. Kane also became the second English player to score in three World Cups (2018, 2022, 2026), following David Beckham (1998, 2002, 2006).

Harry Kane celebrates a goal during England's 4-1 victory over Croatia in their opening Group L match of the 2026 World Cup at AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas, United States on 17/6. *Reuters*

However, former German international Dietmar Hamann remains unimpressed by Kane's milestone. He points out that of Kane's 10 World Cup goals, 7 came against opponents weaker than England in the group stage, with only one goal from open play across five knockout matches.

"Kane scored two goals against Tunisia, three goals against Panama, and a penalty against Colombia in the round of 16," Hamann stated on RTE Sport. "This is his third World Cup. As captain, Kane needs to score in knockout matches."

Hamann, a former German defensive midfielder and current football commentator, represented Germany from 1997-2006, reaching the 2002 World Cup final. The 52-year-old pundit believes it is too early to determine if Kane can be the decisive player to lead England to the 2026 World Cup trophy.

"I want to see him do that against France in the round of 16 or Brazil in the quarterfinals. Whether Kane has the ability or not, we do not know yet. So far, he has not done it," Hamann expressed.

Dietmar Hamann during a commentary session on RTE Sport.

Beyond international duty, Hamann also downplayed Kane's prolific goal-scoring record for Bayern Munich. In the 2025-2026 season, the English striker scored 61 goals in 51 matches, bringing his total to 146 goals in 147 appearances for the German club. "When you watch Kane move, it is clear he scores many goals. But in Munich, almost any striker scores goals. Whether they score 25 or 35 goals, Bayern will usually still win the domestic league," Hamann commented.

The former Liverpool and Man City player even suggested he would prefer other strikers in the tournament over Kane. According to Hamann, the 32-year-old forward's primary limitation is speed.

"In major tournaments, many goals stem from counter-attacks," Hamann explained. "Kane is not the type of player who can score that way. When facing strong teams, sometimes you have to drop deep and then sprint 50-60 meters to finish a play. If Noni Madueke, Anthony Gordon, or Marcus Rashford accelerate, Kane will not be able to keep up. At some point in the tournament, you need speed, and Kane simply lacks that."

Nevertheless, the former German international acknowledged Kane's finishing ability as among the best globally. He stated: "He is probably the best striker in the tournament, perhaps even the best in the world. With his left or right foot, with just half a chance, he can score. But whether Kane will consistently appear in favorable positions when facing Germany, Brazil, or France, I am not sure."

Meanwhile, Gary Lineker offered praise for Kane after the striker equaled his World Cup goal-scoring record. The 65-year-old former legend rated Kane as one of the best strikers in England's history, though he joked that he still ranked above Kane alphabetically.

Hong Duy (according to The Telegraph)