Two of Europe's most prolific strikers used the 2026 World Cup to further enhance their reputations — one announcing himself to a global audience, the other confirming his status as the man for the biggest moments.

Erling Haaland: From Premier League Star to Global Phenomenon

Given Erling Haaland's ludicrous goalscoring ability combined with his off-pitch eccentricity — walking around Manchester dressed as The Joker for Halloween, a penchant for raw milk, sarcastically responding to spelling police on social media — it is little surprise that he left this World Cup as an even bigger superstar.

The Norwegian forward had already taken Europe by storm, breaking goal records for fun with Manchester City in the Premier League, but his exploits on and off the pitch have given him newfound popularity in the United States as well. He scored consecutive doubles in the group stage against Iraq and Senegal, and dragged Norway past Ivory Coast and Brazil with decisive goals in both games.

He has now rejoined his team-mates at Manchester City — including Elliot Anderson, who laughed off Haaland teasing him for being a 'diver' on social media after Norway saw a goal disallowed for a push on the England international in the quarter-finals.

Harry Kane: England's Indispensable Clutch Performer

Harry Kane was England's clutch player at the World Cup, scoring a late double to avoid a disastrous early exit against DR Congo and netting what turned out to be the decisive goal from the penalty spot in England's epic 3-2 win over Mexico. His post-match interview at the Azteca Stadium, attempted with a mostly lost voice, was equally memorable.

The striker left his home country in 2023, after nearly 20 years with Tottenham Hotspur, to join German giants Bayern Munich. He has enjoyed his most prolific years at Bayern, scoring 61 goals in 51 appearances across all competitions last season.

Kane's deal at Bayern runs out next summer — but The Athletic reported in June that despite an enquiry from Barcelona, Kane was likely to sign a new contract at the Allianz Arena. With the new season underway and the Champions League draw just days away, Bayern fans will be hoping for a swift resolution.