Harry Kane has heaped praise on his team-mates after England got their World Cup campaign off to a blistering start with a 6-2 win over Group B rivals Iran.
Surprisingly, England's captain and second-highest scorer didn't get on the scoresheet himself during the victory, but he was nevertheless elated with the team's performance.
In a heartfelt message video to his social media account, Kane praised England's squad and fans following their resounding win in Qatar. But he reserved his greatest compliments for two young team-mates, Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Saka.
"Congrats to Jude for his first England goal, no better place to do it," Kane beamed. Bellingham, 19, opened the scoring during the first half; his first strike in 18 Three Lions appearances.
Off to a great start. Few thoughts on the World Cup opening game win 🦁🦁🦁💪 pic.twitter.com/COyhEO4OakNovember 21, 2022
"Bukayo [was] on fire, with two great finishes," the England skipper added. Saka was a constant threat for England throughout the game, before being substituted during the second half. The Arsenal man's dribbling and direct running was key to Gareth Southgate's side's strong start.
England were 3-0 up by the break, with Raheem Sterling adding a goal to those scored by Bellingham and Saka. Further strikes from Saka, Marcus Rashford and Jack Grealish sealed the win.
Despite the giddy celebrations, England boss Southgate claimed to be unhappy about the manner in which England conceded two second-half goals against Iran. Kane, on the other hand, seemed delighted.
