Hugo Lloris reveals message to Harry Kane after World Cup penalty heartbreak
By Tom Gott
France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris has revealed he spoke with Tottenham teammate Harry Kane after his missed penalty saw England tumble out of the 2022 World Cup.
Kane had already scored once past France captain Lloris in the quarter-final tie but blazed his late second effort over the bar, which proved to be crucial as the Three Lions fell to a 2-1 defeat and booked their flight out of Qatar as a result.
The Spurs striker was visibly devastated after the game and Lloris, who also wears the captain's armband at club level, has since revealed he spoke with his teammate to try cheer him up.
"I don't need to go too much further, but we had a text after the game, but it was not easy to find the words straight after the game in the changing room," Lloris said.
"I think he needed some rest, but it was a difficult time for the England national team and for Harry. But I think he can be proud of what he's done for the national team during this World Cup. I think in football history many top players miss important penalties."
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Lloris also backed Kane to bounce back as soon as possible, stressing that he is not the first superstar player to miss from the spot with the pressure on.
"Players like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe [have missed]," he pointed out. "I've no doubt Harry will keep his chin up and continue to shine for Tottenham and his national team."