England captain Harry Kane has termed Norway striker Erling Haaland as a "machine" but insisted the two forwards are completely different players ahead of Saturday's World Cup quarter-final in Miami.
Haaland has scored seven goals in four matches in his first major international tournament, including a brace in Norway's 2-1 victory over Brazil, which secured the country's first place in the World Cup quarter-finals.
Kane, who plays for Bayern Munich, has scored six goals in the tournament and trails the Manchester City striker by one goal in the race for the Golden Boot. His overall World Cup tally now stands at 14 goals.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Kane said: "I think we are completely different players. I know we are both centre-forwards, but we almost play in different positions."
He praised Haaland's qualities, saying: "Erling is an outstanding player. His scoring record is exceptional. Physically, he is like a machine. He is a beast. His finishing is of the highest standard and his goalscoring record speaks for itself."
Kane said his own game is different despite producing similar numbers in front of goal.
"I see myself as a different type of player. I enjoy getting on the ball more and taking a greater part in the build-up, although I can also play as an out-and-out centre-forward," he said.
The England captain rejected comparisons between the pair.
"I do not think it is right to compare ourselves. I have great respect for him as a player and as a professional. Of course, I hope he has a quiet day against us, but his overall performances have been outstanding. He is a remarkable player."
Despite their impressive scoring records, Kane and Haaland remain behind Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi, who have each scored eight goals in the race for the Golden Boot.
Kane, who won the Golden Boot at the 2018 World Cup, said his main objective is to help England end a 60-year wait for a major international trophy rather than claim the individual award again.
"It has been a wonderful World Cup for the leading strikers. They have scored goals and made a real impact on matches, which does not always happen in major tournaments," he said.
"It is a great competition and it pushes me to perform at my highest level."
Kane added: "My main goal is to win the World Cup rather than the Golden Boot again. I know scoring goals helps the team, but lifting the trophy is what matters most."
England have come close to ending their long wait for major honours in recent years, reaching two European Championship finals and progressing deep into World Cup tournaments.
Kane said England had made steady progress throughout the competition and believed the squad was well placed ahead of the decisive stage of the tournament.
"We are where we wanted to be when we came together six weeks ago. We have taken many positive steps, come through difficult moments and difficult matches. Now we are into the final eight days. Everyone will need to perform at their highest level if we are to achieve our dream," he said.
