Harry Kane has said that the victory of the Bayern Munich Club World Cup over Boca Juniors was played in the middle of a “one of the best” atmospheres of his career and added that he is “loving this tournament so far.”
The captain of England opened the scoring with an 18-minute strike when the 2-1 victory played in front of a complete Hard Rock stadium in Miami, saw Bayern qualified for the qualifying stages.
Argentine football fans are recognized for their passionate support and the environment they can create is considered one of the most intense in world sport.
Boca supporters have announced their presence in Miami with fans gathering in the beach in their thousands and singing in local Walmarts.
When asked if Boca fans surprised him, Kane said: “No, not surprised. I expected them to be loud as they were, but it was an incredible atmosphere to be honest. One of the best [atmospheres] of my career. Credit for them but also credit to Bayern fans. They tried to help us as much as possible, but it was difficult with all Boca fans there. They did a special night, they will not go home happy, but it was a great game. “
Bayern's victory followed striking victories for South American sides over more imagined European opponents. The winners of the Champions League, Paris Saint-Germain, were surprised by Botafogo before Chelsea took off against Flamengo on Friday.
The renewed competition of FIFA has faced strong criticism, but Kane said he has been enjoying the postseason tournament in the United States.
“I think it's great to experience different teams and I think you've seen in this tournament that South American teams have already caused great problems to some of the European teams,” Kane said.
“Show how big football is around the world and how good some of these players are. You have to be ready for the next game, the next opportunity. I love this tournament so far and I hope we can be here for a while.”
The very high temperatures in the United States have been a topic of conversation with Borussia Dortmund planning to rotate his team to deal with the heat conditions waiting for Saturday, with chief coach Niko Kovac fearing the impact of the noon sun in Cincinnati.
But Kane insisted on playing in heat in summer tournaments.
“It doesn't worry me [about the heat]. I think it's part of football. You have to be able to adapt, “he said.” This is a great experience for me and for some of the other types of England that will play next year in the World Cup. So, you know, something special in this type of Club World Cup games and next year it will be the same.
“When you leave that launch and you are sweating and you are dripping and you are cramps and you have given everything from the field, there is a special type of feeling inside, especially when you earn. That's what we have to do.”
When his thoughts about the tournament were requested in general, Kane said: “I think, of course, they are the first, so people are a bit skeptical of what it will be, but if you play the best teams in the world every four years, it will be a really prestigious tournament in the future.”
Bayern faces Benfica in its last group phase game on Tuesday.
Associated Press's information contributed to this report.
