Texas: England launched their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in impressive fashion, defeating Croatia 4-2 in a high-energy Group L encounter at Arlington, Texas. Captain Harry Kane led the charge with two first-half goals, while Jude Bellingham and substitute Marcus Rashford struck after the break to secure all three points for the Three Lions.
The match began at a frantic pace. England took the lead in the 12th minute when Kane converted a retaken penalty after Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livaković was judged to have moved off his line before the initial kick. Croatia responded strongly, with Martin Baturina leveling the score in the 36th minute through a deflected effort.
England regained the advantage just before halftime as Kane netted his second goal of the evening. However, Croatia struck back again in stoppage time when Petar Musa volleyed home from an Ivan Perišić assist, ensuring the teams went into the break level at 2-2.
England emerged with renewed purpose after halftime. Bellingham restored the lead just two minutes into the second half with a clinical low finish. Croatia struggled to contain England’s attacking momentum, and Rashford sealed the victory in the 85th minute after calmly finishing from a Bukayo Saka pass.
England manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledged that his side took time to find rhythm but praised the team’s second-half intensity and commitment. Kane highlighted the importance of maintaining the same level of determination throughout the tournament, while Bellingham credited England’s improved composure and control after the interval.
Croatia coach Zlatko Dalić admitted his side failed to match England’s quality in the second half, describing the performance after the break as disappointing.
The victory gives England an ideal start to their World Cup journey and reinforces their status as one of the tournament’s strongest contenders.
