England manager Thomas Tuchel faces questions about Harry Kane at every news conference. "We speak every match about him as he decides all the matches for us," Tuchel said. "He's our leader. He's our captain. He leads by example. He's in the shape of his life and in the highest peak of his career." Kane has skippered England into the last five major tournaments and will lead them in a World Cup semifinal for a second time.

When Gareth Southgate picked Kane as captain for the 2018 World Cup, it was contentious. Kane wasn't the traditional "bulldog" captain like Bobby Moore or Terry Butcher. But Southgate was impressed by Kane's leadership during a Royal Marines exercise in Devon. "Harry has some outstanding personal qualities," Southgate said. "He is a meticulous professional... he recognises the importance of bringing others with him."

Kane grew into the role, leading by example rather than speeches. Bukayo Saka recalled Kane putting "his arm around me" during his first call-up. After a difficult Euro 2024 where injury hampered him, Kane returned stronger. Under Tuchel, he's captained every match he's started at this World Cup, forming a partnership with Jude Bellingham.

Kane arrived after a remarkable Bayern Munich season with 61 goals in 51 games. He's scored crucial goals throughout the tournament, including two against Croatia, a record-breaking strike against Panama, a double against DR Congo, and a winning penalty at the Estadio Azteca. He's now a contender for the Ballon d'Or.