By KBC Associate 
Harry Kane has opened up on how he’s evolved his penalty-taking style, drawing influence from the likes of Neymar and Mario Balotelli.
Originally known for his powerful approach from the spot, the England skipper now prioritises reading the goalkeeper’s movements before striking the ball.
Speaking to TNT Sports Brasil, Kane explained how observing top-tier penalty takers inspired him to adjust his routine.
“There’s quite a few players over the years who have taken penalties like that.
“I think [some players] pop into my head, [Mario] Balotelli was like this, Neymar was like this.
“There have been players that wait for the keeper before they hit it. That was never something I used to do, I used to go for more power and precision.”
Kane’s decision to revamp his penalty approach was influenced by his experience at the 2022 World Cup, where he missed a critical penalty in England’s quarter-final defeat to France.
✨ Harry Kane’s Königsklassen-Kopfball ist euer 𝑻𝒐𝒓 𝒅𝒆𝒔 𝑴𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒕𝒔 März! 😮💨
Alle Infos: https://t.co/mf2RsOJbjY 🗞️#FCBayern #MiaSanMia pic.twitter.com/VDuzOAR1Zw
— FC Bayern München (@FCBayern) April 13, 2025
While he converted an earlier penalty in the same match, his second attempt sailed over the bar – a moment that continues to haunt him,
“When I missed that penalty in the World Cup I felt like there was something that I can change, especially if you take two penalties in a game,” he added.
“It’s something I wanted to try to improve on. Thankfully, it’s been good since.”
Since joining Bayern Munich, Kane has netted 34 goals in 41 appearances in all competitions this season, leading the Bundesliga scoring charts with 23 goals.
Importantly, he’s been flawless from the penalty spot in the league – converting all nine of his penalties so far this campaign.
“I’m always trying to find little ways to get better,” he said.
“That [penalty taking] is one of them. For sure it’s helped my penalties since. I’m obviously on a good run. I just have to keep doing what I’m doing.”
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