Not a Goal: Zlatan Ibrahimovic Praises Harry Kane's Defensive Action Inside England's Penalty Box

Harry Kane has once again proven himself as one of the best strikers in the world. His outstanding performance during England's 4-2 victory over Croatia in the opening match of 2026 World Cup Group L received public praise from Zlatan Ibrahimovic.  

England beat Croatia 4-2 at Dallas Stadium, early Thursday WIB. Kane scored two goals that secured three critical points for The Three Lions.

Ibrahimovic's praise was not only given for Kane's clinical finishing in front of goal. This Swedish Football Legend commended an overlooked side of Kane's match performance. 

Throughout this tight contested fixture, England were locked 2-2 with Croatia at half-time. Both of England's first half goals came from Harry Kane, while Croatia levelled the score through Martin Baturina and Petar Musa.

In the second half, England sealed their 4-2 victory with goals from Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford.

Kane delivered extremely effective statistics throughout the match. Squawka data recorded that the 32-year-old forward created three scoring chances, registered three shots on target, and made nine touches inside the opposition penalty box.

His contributions did not stop at attacking play either. Per WhoScored match records, Kane also actively supported defensive duties, completing one clearance, one shot block, and one tackle over the full 90 minutes.

One of Kane's defensive actions specifically caught Ibrahimovic's attention. For Zlatan, this single moment displayed true winning mentality.

"Harry Kane did score two goals, but what impressed me most was watching him block an opponent's shot inside his own penalty box during the dying minutes of the match," Ibrahimovic stated, as quoted by BBC.

The Swedish legend assessed that this action reflected the sacrifice of a star player who does not only focus on scoring goals, but is willing to put in hard work for the entire team.

"When a top player is willing to defend like that, that is an enormous sacrifice. He has a genuine, burning desire to win. Kane is prepared to do the work that most star players refuse to do, just to help his side," Ibrahimovic added.

This praise from Ibrahimovic confirms that Kane's performance against Croatia was far more than just two goals. Even while carrying his role as England's primary goalscoring threat, Kane still demonstrated full commitment by covering the backline when his team needed him.