England has already secured its spot at the 2026 World Cup and treated the November qualifying matches as a testing ground. Even after the 5 to 0 win over Latvia, the team stayed focused and beat Albania 2 to 0. The Three Lions are looking for ideas that can make a difference at the tournament. And it was Harry Kane who made it clear that the squad is preparing something completely different for 2026, a set-piece playbook inspired by the NFL.
The forward explained that the coaching staff is building a series of rehearsed plays designed for specific situations. No more lofting the ball into the box without a plan. The idea is to study each opponent, understand how they defend, identify gaps and choose the right option. “We want to create a set-piece repertoire like an NFL playbook, where you analyze the opponent, see if they defend zonally or man to man, and choose what we want to do,” Kane said. He also highlighted how much these moments matter. “In the end, the best team on set pieces usually ends up being the best team in the tournament.”
England leans on set pieces as the debate grows across the country
Kane’s comments aren’t random. Set pieces have become a constant talking point in English soccer. Corners, wide free kicks and even long throw-ins have sparked discussions, criticism and analysis. The numbers help explain it, 19 percent of Premier League goals come from corners, and an average of four long throws into the box per match shows how relevant these plays have become.
England decided to embrace this trend. There’s no concern about appearing dependent on it. The coaching staff sees an opportunity to gain an edge in tight matches, especially in knockout stages where every detail matters.
Kane sees the World Cup as a chance to elevate his career
Beyond the collective strategy, Kane talked about personal goals. He made it clear that individual numbers aren’t enough without major titles. “I could score 100 goals this season, but if I don’t win the Champions League or the World Cup, I’m probably not going to win the Ballon d’Or. It’s the same with Haaland, it’s the same with any player. You need to win those big trophies.”
The forward is in good form at Bayern and believes that can help him. At the same time, he sees England in a strong moment, with a solid group and well-defined ideas. The team arrives more mature and, for the first time in a while, comfortable with the idea of being a favorite.
If the set-piece plan really works, England gains a tool capable of deciding difficult matches. And for Kane, it might be exactly the kind of scenario he needs to turn performance into a title.