Harry Kane says England’s 2-1 World Cup semi-final defeat by Argentina hurt more than any previous tournament exit because the team abandoned its identity and beliefs. He is eager to move forward, but believes England must understand why they repeatedly struggle against the strongest nations in crucial matches.

Kane described the defeat as more painful than missing a penalty against France in 2022, saying England barely controlled the game after taking the lead. England face world champions Spain at Wembley in the Nations League, with several players including Declan Rice absent; Kane also backed Rice’s decision to manage ongoing hamstring nerve pain. Kane is four caps short of Peter Shilton’s England record of 125.