Jürgen Klopp was effusive in his praise for England’s striker Harry Kane following his brace in the Three Lions’ 2-1 victory in the World Cup Round of 16 against Congo.
Kane was instrumental in getting England back on track after an early setback against the underdogs. He first equalized with a header from a cross by substitute Anthony Gordon, making it 1-1. He then scored the decisive goal, a spectacular long-range strike with his right foot, to put England ahead 2-1.
«The influence Harry Kane has, I’ve never seen anything like it. If Harry Kane isn’t performing, and that was the case for the first 30 minutes, then England wasn’t performing either. The moment he started to find his rhythm a bit better, those moments were immediately there,» Klopp stated in comments made to Magenta TV.
His conclusion was: «The clear favorite prevails, thanks to a player who is almost indescribable. In the second half, he was practically impossible to defend. Incredible.»
Kane’s goals, his fourth and fifth of the tournament in North America, once again highlighted his status as the most crucial player for coach Thomas Tuchel’s team, which dreams of their first World Cup title in 60 years. However, even if the ultimate triumph doesn’t materialize, Klopp was certain: «I don’t know if statues have been built for him yet, but they will be built in England, one hundred percent.»
Harry Kane: «For me, it was one of those days»
With his goals, Kane seamlessly continues his exceptional season with FC Bayern Munich, where he once again secured the Bundesliga top scorer award. He netted 36 times in 31 league matches. In total, the 32-year-old scored 61 goals and provided seven assists in 51 competitive games for the German record champions.
«It feels great, it was a crazy game. There are truly heroic moments – and for me, it was one of those days,» Kane commented after the emotional victory for the Three Lions, who are set to face co-hosts Mexico in the Round of 16 at the Azteca (Monday, 2 AM).
Harry Kane for the England National Team:
| Games: | 118 |
| Goals: | 84 |
| Debut: | March 27, 2015 |