According to The Sun Nigeria News on October 26, 2026, England captain Harry Kane and Mexico international Charlyn Corral have been named Best Strikers of the Year at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony in recognition of their outstanding goal scoring performances in men’s and women’s football.

Kane, who represents German Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, received the men’s award after recording an impressive 73 goals during the assessment period. Corral, who plays for Mexican club CF Pachuca, claimed the women’s honour, marking a significant milestone in her career.

The awards were presented by former England striker Alan Shearer and actress Sophie Turner during the prestigious ceremony, which brought together leading football personalities from across the world.

Unlike several other Ballon d’Or honours, the Best Striker awards were determined by goals scored rather than votes from journalists or other selectors. Kane’s impressive tally placed him ahead of the other contenders for the men’s prize.

Speaking after receiving the award, the England captain described the previous season as the best of his professional career, expressing satisfaction with his performances in front of goal.

It was an incredible year for me last year, it was the best season of my career without a doubt,” Kane said.

He also acknowledged the importance of teamwork and family support in achieving his goalscoring success.

To score this amount of goals is something I am very proud of but it would not be possible without my teammates and my family,” he added.

Kane’s latest recognition further highlights his importance to Bayern Munich and the England national team. His consistent ability to find the back of the net has established him as one of the leading forwards in European football.

Meanwhile, Corral celebrated her victory as a historic achievement for Mexican football, becoming the first Mexican player to receive the award.

The Pachuca forward expressed happiness at being recognized on the international stage and praised the progress of women’s football in her country.

I am very happy to be here, the first Mexican to receive this prize and full of pride because my country, Mexico, is doing very well in women’s football, she said through an interpreter.

Her achievement represents a significant moment for Mexican women’s football and provides further recognition of the growing influence of female players in the global game.

The Best Striker awards celebrate players whose goalscoring performances distinguish them during the assessment period.

Kane and Corral’s victories underline the importance of consistency, teamwork and attacking quality in football, while highlighting the achievements of leading forwards in both the men’s and women’s games.