Kane helps England edge past NZ in underwhelming show

Harry Kane. Pic/AFP

Harry Kane's 79th international goal edged England to a 1-0 win over New Zealand as the Three Lions's World Cup preparations got off to an underwhelming start in the Florida heat on Saturday.

Kane flicked in Djed Spence's cross in first half stoppage time as England laboured to victory against a side 81 places below them in the world rankings. "We're here for preparation more than the result," said Kane after his 67th goal of the season for club and country.

"It's the best shape I've ever been in my career. I'm excited, can't wait for it to get started," he added.

Meanwhile, Bruno Guimaraes and Endrick scored in each half as Brazil stepped up its World Cup preparations with a 2-1 win over Egypt. The African side scored through Mostafa Ziko.

Elsewhere, Germany sealed a ninth consecutive victory heading into the global showpiece with a 2-1 victory over co-hosts USA.

Kai Havertz and Leroy Sane scored for Germany, while USA struck through an Antonee Robinson thunderbolt.

Portugal registered a 2-1 victory over Chile thanks to well-taken second-half goals from Goncalo Guedes and Bruno Fernandes, with veteran Cristiano Ronaldo playing the opening period only.

Lionel Messi sat out Argentina's 2-0 win against Honduras as he continues to manage muscle fatigue and a mild strain in his left hamstring.

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever