Kane edges England to underwhelming New Zealand victory

Harry Kane’s 79th international goal gave England a narrow 1‑0 win over New Zealand as their World Cup preparations began in sluggish fashion under the Florida heat. The captain flicked in Djed Spence’s excellent cross in first‑half stoppage time, providing the decisive moment against opponents ranked 81 places below the Three Lions. 

New Zealand had been thrashed 4‑0 by Haiti earlier in the week, yet England struggled to create clear chances in their first outing on American soil. Thomas Tuchel rotated heavily, naming different elevens for each half, offering few clues ahead of the World Cup opener against Croatia on 10 June. 

Ivan Toney replaced Kane after the break and thought he had won a penalty, only for a marginal offside to intervene. England dominated possession but failed to extend their lead, while New Zealand focused on damage limitation. 

England also face Ghana and Panama in Group L, with New Zealand meeting Iran, Belgium and Egypt.