England secured a 4-2 victory over Croatia in their World Cup 2026 Group L opener, with Harry Kane equalling the national team's World Cup finals scoring record. The match saw both sides exchange blows before England pulled away in the second half.
Jordan Pickford had a mixed game, making a crucial late save but looking shaky at times. Reece James was at fault for Croatia's second equaliser, while Ezri Konsa improved after a difficult first half. John Stones looked rusty but grew into the game. Nico O'Reilly impressed going forward but remains a work in progress defensively.
Elliot Anderson was excellent in midfield, setting up Jude Bellingham's goal, while Declan Rice provided a pinpoint corner for Kane's header but looked fatigued. Noni Madueke was a constant threat down the right, winning a penalty, and Bellingham made amends for losing the ball in the buildup to Croatia's first goal by scoring a brilliant strike. Anthony Gordon struggled to make an impact.
Harry Kane operated as a deep-lying forward at times but still scored to equal England's World Cup finals record. Substitutes Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka contributed to the win, with Rashford scoring a fine goal. For Croatia, Dominik Livakovic made several outstanding saves despite being off his line for the penalty. Luka Modric surprisingly gave away the early penalty but still showed class, while Ivan Perisic set up the second equaliser with a clever header.
The result puts England in a strong position in Group L, with Croatia left to rue missed chances. England will look to build on this performance in their next match.
