England Beat Croatia 4-2 in Thrilling World Cup Opener

1 hour ago·2 min

England launched their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in explosive fashion, defeating Croatia 4-2 in a chaotic and compelling encounter at Dallas Stadium on Wednesday. Thomas Tuchel's side scored four goals but were made to work hard for the victory, with Croatia pulling level twice before England ultimately pulled clear.

Kane's brace sets the tone

Captain Harry Kane was central to England's victory, opening the scoring from the penalty spot in the 12th minute after Luka Modric fouled Noni Madueke. The initial penalty was saved by Dominik Livakovic, but the goalkeeper was adjudged to have moved off his line — and Josko Gvardiol's encroachment forced a retake, which Kane converted.

The goals drew Kane level with Gary Lineker on 10 World Cup goals. Kane added a second on the stroke of half-time, heading in a Declan Rice corner to restore England's lead after Croatia had twice levelled.

Croatia's double fightback

Croatia refused to be overwhelmed. Martin Baturina struck a stunning effort from the edge of the box in the 36th minute against the run of play to make it 1-1. England responded through Kane's header to lead 2-1, but Croatia struck again just before the break — Petar Musa converting from close range following a clever headed pass from Ivan Perisic to level at 2-2.

The centre-back pairing of John Stones and Ezri Konsa came under scrutiny as England's defensive frailties were exposed, with Croatia's two goals coming from their first two shots on target.

England dominate the second half

Tuchel's side emerged after the interval as a completely transformed unit. Jude Bellingham struck into the far corner just two minutes into the second half to put England ahead for the third time, and the pressure did not relent.

Livakovic produced remarkable saves to deny Nico O'Reilly, Anthony Gordon, and Konsa as England bombarded the Croatian goal. The fourth eventually arrived in the 85th minute — substitutes Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford combined brilliantly, with Rashford finishing to seal the 4-2 win.

Late drama arrived in stoppage time when Kane threw his body on the line to block a shot from Gvardiol and preserve the two-goal cushion.