Kane's wait for a trophy continues after another heartbreaking Euros for England

Harry Kane's challenging Euro 2024 campaign concluded with a 2-1 loss to Spain in the final.

In a match that epitomized England’s ongoing struggles in major tournaments, their captain's quest for a trophy continues.

Despite scoring three goals and sharing the Golden Boot, Kane's efforts were not enough to secure victory. 

The Bayern Munich striker was visibly distressed after being substituted, watching as Mikel Oyarzabal scored the winning goal four minutes from time. Kane's minimal impact in the game was evident with just 13 touches in his hour on the field.

"It's hard to express how we're feeling," Kane admitted post-match. "These finals are tough to reach, and missing out again is extremely painful. It will hurt for a long time."

Despite the setback, Kane remains a central figure in England's rise under Gareth Southgate, from underachievers to consistent contenders. 

Appointed captain before the 2018 World Cup, Kane’s six goals led England to their first semi-final in 28 years. His performance in Euro 2020 brought them to the final, only to lose to Italy on penalties.

After a penalty miss in the 2022 World Cup quarter-final against France, Kane left Tottenham for Bayern Munich, seeking silverware. His prolific scoring continued with 44 goals in 45 games, but Bayern finished the season without a trophy, a first since 2012.

Kane's efforts, along with standout seasons from Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, Bukayo Saka, and Cole Palmer, positioned England as Euro 2024 favorites. However, Kane's physical struggles, including a back injury, hindered his performance.

England's journey to the final was marked by moments of brilliance and tactical decisions by Southgate, including replacing Kane in five out of seven games. 

The semi-final victory over the Netherlands was sealed by Ollie Watkins' stoppage-time winner. In the final, after Nico Williams' goal for Spain, Palmer equalized, but Oyarzabal's late strike sealed England's fate.

Southgate and Kane now face uncertain futures. Southgate is contemplating his next steps, while Kane will be nearly 33 by the next World Cup. While silverware at Bayern Munich seems likely, Kane’s chance for international triumph may have passed.