England qualifies for Euro 2024 with Kane’s double against Italy

England secured their spot in Euro 2024 with a 3-1 victory over Italy at Wembley on Tuesday, thanks to Harry Kane’s impressive performance. Despite falling behind early to Gianluca Scamacca’s goal, England bounced back with Kane’s penalty, set up by Jude Bellingham’s dynamic play.

Bellingham also played a crucial role in Marcus Rashford’s decisive goal. Kane, showing his leadership, netted his 61st goal for the team in the closing moments. With two group games remaining, England, undefeated and with five wins in six qualifiers, are assured of finishing atop Group C. Italy, still reeling from their World Cup qualification miss last year, face a tough fight for the second automatic qualification spot in the group. They’re three points behind Ukraine.

While Italy has a play-off spot secured, they’ll face North Macedonia at home before a crucial match in Ukraine. England’s journey to major tournaments has been smooth, but it’s Southgate’s ability to clinch a first men’s international trophy since 1966 that will define his reign.

Despite a Euro final loss to Italy two years ago, they’ve gained some retribution with two wins in the group stage. Southgate believes this team is stronger than the one that fell in the Euro final, and with players like Kane and Bellingham, there’s little room for excuses if they don’t bring home the silverware from Germany.