(VIDEO) He finally did it: Harry Kane scored vs Malta and matched Haaland's record

The England national team said goodbye to their fans in 2023. This Friday they faced Malta at Wembley Stadium in the penultimate match of group C of the Euro 2024 qualifiers. They had already secured their place in the continent's most important international tournament to be held next summer in Germany, but they needed at least a draw to take the top spot in the standings for good.

Despite the fact that their opponents have been the worst team in the group, with 8 defeats in 8 matches, things were not so easy for The Three Lions. In the first minutes they scored the opener thanks to Phil Foden, who dribbled past a defender and sent a drilled cross that defender Enrico Pepe deflected into the box, making it impossible for goalkeeper Henry Bonello to save. But then Malta defended well and showed an acceptable performance.

During the second half the visitors started to show signs of fatigue and England took advantage of it, controlling the ball and dominating the field. This allowed them to score the second goal after 30 minutes: Kyle Walker advanced several yards with the ball, gave a pass to Foden inside the box, who quickly passed the ball to Bukayo Saka. The Arsenal winger assisted Harry Kane, who only had to push the ball in front of goal.

With 19 points, Gareth Southgate's side secured top spot in the Group C standings. Now they have only one game left in 2023: it will be next Monday against Macedonia.

Harry did it

Kane is showing excellent performances this season. Since his arrival at Bayern Munich, he has become the biggest star in the Bundesliga, and he also shines in the Champions League. With the Bavarian team he has scored many goals, as well as with the English national team. Friday's goal against Malta allowed him to equal Erling Haaland's record: both are now the top scorers in the world with 48 goals in 2023.