Hugo Lloris has opened up on his interaction with his Tottenham Hotspur team-mate Harry Kane, after the latter missed a decisive penalty when the two players met in the 2022 World Cup.
Lloris, 35, and Kane, 29, captained France and England respectively when the two nations faced off in a World Cup quarter-final on Saturday. Reigning world champions France won 2-1 on the night through goals from Aurelien Tchouameni and Olivier Giroud on either side of the break.
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Lloris also faced off directly against his Tottenham Hotspur team-mate Kane when England were awarded two penalties in the second half. Kane was able to slot his first effort past France goalkeeper Lloris to level the scoreline — equalling Wayne Rooney’s all-time England scoring record with his 53rd goal in the process.
But, with England trailing 2-1, Kane spurned the opportunity to send the tie into extra-time and surpass Rooney’s record as he blazed a second opportunity from the spot over the bar in the 84th minute.
When asked whether he had spoken to Kane, who looked disconsolate after the game, Lloris told reporters: “I don’t need to go too much into it. We had a text, after the game. It was not easy to find the words straight after the game, I think he needs some rest.
“It’s a difficult time for the English national team and for Harry. But I think he can be proud, proud for what he has done for the national team during this World Cup.
“I think in football history, many top players have missed important penalties during their career, players like Leo Messi, like Cristiano Ronaldo, like Kylian Mbappe. I have no doubt Harry will keep his chin up and he will help Tottenham and the national team to shine.”
Following their win against England, France will take on Morocco on Wednesday in the World Cup semi-final at the Al Bayt Stadium.
(Photo: Getty Images)
