Harry Kane has revealed that facing the Leopards of the Democratic Republic of the Congo was the most difficult challenge of his international career.
The England captain was speaking shortly after being crowned Ballon d’Or 2026 winner, following an exceptional season with Bayern Munich. Asked by renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano to identify the toughest opponent he had faced, Kane gave an unexpected answer.
“My most difficult match? Against Congo. To this day, I still don’t understand how I scored,” he said.
Kane’s remark highlights the intensity and defensive strength produced by the Congolese national team during that encounter. It also underlines the lasting impression made by the Leopards on one of the world’s leading strikers.
The admission came as Kane reflected on a particularly memorable moment from his international career. His surprise at having found the net against the Democratic Republic of the Congo served as an unprompted acknowledgement of the challenge posed by the Congolese side.
