World Cup 2026: Harry Kane says ‘it’s the best opportunity I’ll get to win the title’ ahead of Ghana clash

England captain Harry Kane believes the 2026 FIFA World Cup presents the Three Lions with their greatest opportunity yet to end a six-decade wait for football’s biggest prize, as attention begins to turn to a crucial group-stage clash with Ghana later this month.

Sixty years after England’s only World Cup triumph in 1966, Kane is leading another generation of hopefuls into the tournament, convinced that the current squad has what it takes to finally bring the trophy back home.

England open their campaign against Croatia on June 17, a fixture loaded with memories after the Croatians ended their dream run at the 2018 World Cup in the semi-finals. But for Ghanaian fans, England’s meeting with the Black Stars on June 23 in Foxborough, Massachusetts, is already shaping up as one of the standout matches in Group L.

Harry Kane confident of England’s chances

At 32, Kane arrives at the World Cup in outstanding form following another prolific season with Bayern Munich. The striker believes his current condition and experience make this tournament a unique opportunity to achieve the one major honour that has eluded him.

Speaking to ITV Football, Kane acknowledged the uncertainty that comes with football careers and why he is approaching the tournament with extra motivation.

“I think it’s always ‘it could be your last’ because you never know what happens in football.”

The England skipper stressed that while he intends to play at the highest level for many more years, injuries and changing circumstances mean no player can take future World Cups for granted.

“The World Cup for me is the pinnacle of any career. This is my third tournament now.”

Ghana clash adds extra intrigue

Kane’s comments will not go unnoticed in Ghana, where the Black Stars are preparing for a decisive encounter against one of the tournament favourites.

England will face Ghana at Gillette Stadium on June 23, with kick-off scheduled for 8:00pm Ghana time. The match could have a major bearing on qualification from Group L and will pit Kane against a Black Stars side eager to make a statement on the world stage.

Chasing a career-defining moment

Despite a glittering career filled with individual accolades and goals, Kane knows World Cup success would elevate his legacy to another level.

“I’ll probably just say the shape I’m in and also coming off the back of the season I’ve had is probably the best opportunity maybe I’ll get in my career to win the World Cup.”

For England, the mission is to end 60 years of frustration. For Ghana, the challenge will be to derail those ambitions and strengthen their own hopes of progressing from a highly competitive group.