England delivered a historic 7-0 victory over Croatia in the Nations League on Sunday, with Harry Kane scoring twice and Jude Bellingham contributing a goal and three assists. The result at Stadion HNK Rijeka puts England firmly in second place in their group, strengthening their chances of reaching next year's quarter-finals.
The match was played in front of 6,200 Croatian under-14s, who were admitted free of charge. England's performance was their most complete since a 4-2 win over Croatia at the World Cup, according to Thomas Tuchel. Kane, on his 124th cap, scored his 88th and 89th international goals.
England's attacking quartet shines
Anthony Gordon and Bukayo Saka were in scoring form on the flanks, while Alex Scott impressed on his full debut. The 23-year-old Bournemouth player, earning his second cap, showed tenacity and quality on and off the ball, including a defence-splitting pass to release Gordon.
Bellingham, back in the side after being rested during Tuesday's 2-0 win over Czechia, was still influential late on, setting up substitute Morgan Rogers to make it 7-0. Scott and Elliot Anderson, who partnered each other when England won the Under-21 European Championship last year, dominated the midfield.
Croatia's struggles and England's dominance
Croatia, ranked 13th in the world, suffered their biggest ever defeat. Luka Modric, at 41, was removed before the end. England led after eight minutes when Marc Guéhi intercepted a loose pass from Josko Gvardiol, and Bellingham set up Kane to score. Bellingham made it 2-0 in the 21st minute, and Gordon headed in a cross from Jarell Quansah to make it 3-0.
England's press was aggressive, and they could have scored more than seven. Kane set up Saka to make it 6-0 in the 68th minute. Jordan Pickford, restored in goal, made a key intervention at 1-0 to deny Ivan Perisic.
Record in sight for Kane
Kane, who will equal Peter Shilton's appearance record when England host Czechia on Tuesday, showed no signs of slowing down. The 33-year-old captain continues to lead the attack effectively.
