Harry Kane, the England captain, has expressed his willingness to trade all his career accomplishments for a victory in the Euro 2024 final against Spain. Despite holding four runners-up medals and numerous individual awards, including being England’s all-time top goalscorer and the second-highest scorer in Premier League history, Kane has yet to win a major trophy. He emphasized his increasing motivation to achieve this as he addressed reporters before the final in Berlin.
On Sunday night, Kane has the chance to change his fortunes. “It’s no secret I haven’t won a team trophy, and every year that goes by, I’m more motivated to change that,” he said during the pre-match press conference. “Tomorrow night, I have the chance to win one of the biggest you could ever win and make history with my nation. No question I’d swap everything I’ve done in my career to have a special night and a win tomorrow evening.”
Kane acknowledged the emotional significance of a potential victory for both himself and the fans, describing it as “the most incredible feeling as a professional footballer.” He recalled the disappointment of the previous Euros and expressed a renewed determination to secure a win this time. “It was a tough finish in the last Euros, so there’s that extra hunger and fire in the belly to make sure this one goes our way,” he added.
England’s men’s team has not won a major tournament since the 1966 World Cup, and Gareth Southgate’s squad now has the opportunity to change that. Despite the pressure, Kane remains focused on the game rather than the potential impact on his life. “I try not to think too much about that side of it,” he said. “I’m extremely excited for the chance to make a lot of people happy, including myself.”
England manager Gareth Southgate, reflecting on his 35-year career in football, expressed confidence and fearlessness ahead of the final. He highlighted the lessons learned from past defeats and emphasized the importance of perspective. “For me, those difficult nights have taught me football can change so quickly. The difference between winning and losing is so small,” he said. “To represent my country as a player and then to lead my country for eight years as a manager has been the biggest privilege I could possibly have.”
Southgate encouraged his players to embrace a fearless attitude, believing it would enhance their chances of winning. “If we’re not afraid to lose, it gives us a better chance of winning,” he said. While not believing in fairy tales, Southgate stressed the importance of making dreams come true through performance.
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente echoed the sentiment of equality in the final, rejecting the notion of favorites. “We know there is no favorite tomorrow. It is a very equal game, same as the previous game we’ve played,” he said. De la Fuente emphasized the importance of focus and execution, acknowledging the excitement and respect his team holds for their rivals.
As the final approaches, both teams are prepared for a fiercely contested match, with Kane and Southgate leading England’s quest for historic victory.
Credit: Sky Sports
