Harry Kane has admitted that England have only shown their best "in glimpses" during this World Cup, despite reaching the semi-finals for the fourth time in their history. The Three Lions booked their place in the last four with a dramatic extra-time victory over Norway in Miami, thanks to another masterclass from Jude Bellingham.
England's Path to the Semi-Final
England will face Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday, with a place in the final against the winner of France vs Spain at stake. The tennis-style ranking system set up by FIFA has kept the top four seeds apart, and England have just about managed to hold their end of the bargain. However, Kane insists there is room for improvement if they are to realise the dream of winning their first World Cup since 1966.
"We haven't seen that yet, we've shown it in glimpses. Against Norway it was in glimpses," Kane said. "But we haven't had full control that we would like and I feel we can have. But at this stage of the tournament you are playing against the best teams in the world."
Key Performers and Areas for Improvement
Kane and Bellingham have been England's standout players, each scoring six goals in the tournament. Marcus Rashford is the only other England player to have found the net. Despite the reliance on a few individuals, Kane praised the team's defensive effort and determination against Norway.
"We are showing a lot of good things and the way the boys defended as a team against Norway and the way we attacked, we still had some really good moments and Jude stepped up for us with another couple of goals," he added. "Overall we can be really pleased we are in the semi-finals."
Tuchel's Impact and Squad Depth
England manager Thomas Tuchel has instilled a winning mentality, and his record in knockout football is superb. The squad depth was on display against Norway, with substitutes like Djed Spence, Bukayo Saka, and Eberechi Eze making significant contributions. Declan Rice went off ill at half-time, having been in bed for much of the week, while Dan Burn was heroic in nullifying Erling Haaland.
"That is when you need the squad the most," Kane said. "The guys who came on were outstanding. Djed was outstanding and really made a difference there against a tricky winger and it will be no different on Wednesday."
Looking Ahead to Argentina
England will have the luxury of an air-conditioned stadium in Atlanta, but Kane knows they must improve to overcome old rivals Argentina. "We know we can improve and we know we can play better," he said. "But ultimately we are in a semi-final of the World Cup and that has not always been the case for this national team so we have to enjoy it."
Since winning the World Cup in 1966, England have reached only three semi-finals: in 1990, 2018, and now 2026. Kane is determined to savour the moment while focusing on the task ahead. "Let's just enjoy this, recover well and go again on Wednesday," he concluded.
