England Make Flying Start to World Cup with Croatia Victory

You are currently viewing England Make Flying Start to World Cup with Croatia Victory
epa13045365 Josip Sutalo of Croatia (L) in action against Harry Kane of England (R) during the FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage match England against Croatia, in Dallas, Texas, USA, 17 June 2026. EPA/JEFFREY MCWHORTER

England got their World Cup campaign off to a flying start with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Croatia in their Group L opener at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.

Harry Kane opened the scoring for England in the 11th minute from the penalty spot after he had to retake his penalty after Dominik Livaković was adjudged to have came of his line.

Croatia managed to level matters in the 35th minute through Martin Baturina to make it 1-1.

Kane restored England’s lead in the 41st minute before Petar Musa levelled matters on the stroke of half-time.

The Three Lions came out guns blazing in the second half and restored their lead after 90 second through Jude Bellingham before substitute Marcus Rashford grabbed a goal of his own in the 84th minute.

England managed to hold on to their lead until the final whistle to secure the win and all three points.