England defeat Italy 2-1 with Kane’s record-breaking goal

Ten-men England came out victorious against Italy in their opening game of the Euro 2024 qualifiers on Thursday night.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 England start Euro 2024 qualifying with a win against Italy!

Harry Kane became England's all-time men's record scorer in a first victory away against the Azzurri since 1961 👊

Italy's first home defeat in Euros qualifying since 1999 👀

Reaction ⬇#BBCFootball #ITAENG pic.twitter.com/hBbuvBQRIx

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) March 23, 2023

More on this topic:

Graham Potter eyes England job after Southgate’s departure

It was certainly a night to remember for Harry Kane as he sealed his name in the history books becoming England’s all-time goalscorer with 54 goals out of 81 appearances, surpassing Wayne Rooney.

The Three Lions were definetely the classier side in the first half, proven by Declan Rice, who struck a rebound shot in the 13 minute to give England the lead.

Shortly before half-time England cheers could be heard all around the stadium as the Three Lions with the help of VAR were awarded a penalty for Di Lorenzo’s handball. Up stepped Kane and the Tottenham’s star made light use of the opportunity as he smashed the ball into the top right corner to double England’s lead  and write his name in the record books.

The second half saw a much more tamed English side, trying to preserve their 2-0 advantage. Italy’s persistence paid off as Mateo Retegui got one back for the Azzuri team in the 56th minute.

England had to endure a real torture in the closing stages after left-back Luke Shaw was sent off for a second yellow in the 80th, received only a minute after his first booking. However, Italy were unable to capitalise and succumbed to 2-1 defeat in their home ground.