The highly anticipated clash between Kane and Haaland is the focal point of today's big game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. The match draws significant attention as the Golden Boot race is intense. Kane currently ranks third with six goals, behind Haaland (seven goals) and Lionel Messi (Argentina), Kylian Mbappe (France), both of whom have eight goals.

"This has been a great World Cup in terms of the number of goals top strikers have scored. That does not always happen in major tournaments," Kane said regarding the Golden Boot race. "This is a big competition and creates motivation for me to perform at my highest level."

Harry Kane (left) celebrates the equalizer with Jude Bellingham in England's 2-1 comeback victory over DR Congo in the World Cup round of 16 at Atlanta Stadium on 1/7. *Photo: AP*

However, the England captain affirmed that individual awards are not his top priority. "My primary goal is to win the World Cup with England, not the Golden Boot. But I know my job is to score goals to help the team achieve success," Kane said.

Kane praised Haaland, the striker who scored a brace to help Norway defeat Brazil 2-1 in the round of 8, reaching a World Cup quarter-final for the first time. When asked who was better between him and Haaland, the 32-year-old striker said it was a difficult question to answer because the two have distinct playing styles.

"He and I are both strikers, but almost play in two different positions," Kane stated. "Erling is truly phenomenal with his goal-scoring record. He has the physique of a machine, a monster. His finishing ability is at the highest level, and his goal-scoring record speaks for itself."

This season, Kane has scored a total of 73 goals for Bayern and England. Meanwhile, Haaland has scored 46 goals for Man City and won the premier league golden boot for the third time in the last 4 seasons.

"I see myself as a different type of player, though I also score many goals," Kane added. "I like to touch the ball more, participate more in the build-up, but I can still play as a true number 9. I do not think we should be compared. But I hope Haaland has a quiet day tomorrow."

England has not shown convincing form despite reaching the quarter-finals. The "Three Lions" defeated Croatia 4-2, drew Ghana 0-0, beat Panama 2-0 in the group stage, then struggled to overcome DR Congo 2-1 in the round of 16 and Mexico 3-2 in the round of 8 at Azteca Stadium.

Kane believes that champions rarely have a perfect journey from start to finish in major tournaments. The Bayern striker also expressed confidence that England is prepared to hit peak form at the decisive moment, as the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final will take place over just over a week.

"Everyone wants to start the tournament perfectly," he stated. "In an ideal scenario, you win every game, win easily, and play great football. But that does not always happen. We are now entering the phase where we need to show our best version."

Kane also confirmed having played golf with US President Donald Trump in Palm Beach about 18 months ago, calling it a special experience. The 32-year-old striker evaluated Trump's golf skills as very good and hopes he can maintain such form at the same age.

Key developments from England's 3-2 victory over Mexico in the World Cup 2026 round of 8.

Hong Duy (according to ESPN)