Football

World Cup 2022: Ex-England international explains why Harry Kane improves as games go on

World Cup 2022: Ex-England international explains why Harry Kane improves as games go on

Former England international Andros Townsend has explained the reasons behind Harry Kane’s fine form in the latter stages of major tournaments.

Three Lions skipper Kane failed to score in the group stages of the 2022 World Cup, but netted in the round of 16 meeting with Senegal.

The striker scored five of his six 2018 World Cup goals in the group stages, but scored all four of his Euro 2020 goals in the knockout rounds.

England striker given more space in knockouts

Townsend, who made 13 appearances for the Three Lions between 2013 and 2016, says Kane is afforded more space in the knockout rounds, and so can score more goals.

The Everton winger noted just how much of a threat France star Kylian Mbappe will be in the quarter-final match, but believes Kane can be equally effective. The France forward scored two and grabbed an assist in France’s round of 16 win over Poland.

“Yes, in Kylian Mbappe, France have a magnificent talent – my tip to land the Golden Boot,” said Townsend, as reported by the Mirror.

“He’s scored five so far, two more than any other player – and he is going well. He has also now scored 24 times in 24 games for club and country this season.

“But Harry has that Golden Boot under his belt. He has another two in the Premier League. Last year at the Euros, he didn’t score in the group stages but hit four in three games in the knockouts to get us to the final.

“Why? Well, in the knockouts you’re up against better sides and more expansive football. In the group stages teams are in a low block. That denies Harry the space he needs.

“Senegal opened up after conceding and Harry was able to cash in. So if we start fast and score early, he’ll get more chances – and I’d put my house on him taking them.”

England

Can England defence deal with Mbappe threat?

Kane currently sits on one goal in Qatar, with Mbappe leading the way with five. He will undoubtedly be the man England must pay closest attention to on Saturday evening, but Townsend believes the Three Lions defence can deal with the threat.

It remains to be seen which right-back England boss Gareth Southgate will choose to take on PSG’s Mbappe, with Townsend saying that Manchester City’s Kyle Walker is perhaps the most appropriate option.

Mbappe was on the scoresheet when the two clubs met at the Etihad in a Champions League group match in November 2021.

“Mbappe prefers to play off the left instead of up front because when you’re not the biggest or the strongest you can get isolated up front,” said Townsend.

“But on the left, or in wide areas, you have the freedom to roam into the No.10 or No.9 positions. You can also isolate your full-back which is where Mbappe is best.

“Kyle Walker can hold his own against him, though. They met when PSG faced Manchester City in the Champions League group stages just over a year ago.

“Kylian did score in that game but overall Kyle did well against him and City won to top their group.

“At 29, Harry has experience on his side. At 23, Mbappe has youth and he’s an even better player now. But Kyle’s pace means it will be a great fight.”


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