England kicked off their World Cup campaign with a pulsating 4-2 victory over Croatia, thanks to a brace from Harry Kane and goals from Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford. The match was a chaotic affair, with Croatia twice equalising before England's quality shone through.
First Half Drama
England were gifted an early penalty when Luka Modric clumsily fouled Noni Madueke from a corner. Kane saw his spot-kick saved but was given a retake due to encroachment, and he made no mistake the second time. Croatia equalised through a stunning strike from Martin Baturina, but Kane restored the lead with a powerful header from Declan Rice's corner. However, Croatia struck again just before half-time, with Peter Musa finishing from Ivan Perisic's knock-back.
Second Half Dominance
England started the second half with renewed energy, and Bellingham quickly restored the lead with a barnstorming solo run and finish. Rashford added a late fourth to seal the win, putting the Three Lions top of their group.
Player Ratings
Jordan Pickford - 6: Little he could do about Croatia's two goals. His distribution drew criticism from manager Thomas Tuchel, leading to a first-half disagreement.
Reece James - 5: Good delivery at times but struggled to contain Ivan Perisic, who set up Croatia's second goal.
Ezri Konsa - 4: Failed to track Perisic for the second goal and looked uncomfortable alongside John Stones.
John Stones - 4: Went to ground too easily for Croatia's first goal and lacked confidence after limited playing time this season.
Nico O'Reilly - 6: Below his usual high standards and missed a good chance.
Elliot Anderson - 5: Decent performance but has set higher expectations.
Declan Rice - 6: On the periphery in midfield but delivered a perfect corner for Kane's second goal. Unusually substituted after 72 minutes.
Jude Bellingham - 8: Lost a key duel leading to Croatia's first goal but made amends with a sensational solo effort. His determination drove the team forward.
Noni Madueke - 8: Replaced Bukayo Saka and made an immediate impact, winning the penalty with his sharp play. Nearly assisted Bellingham with a fine cross.
Harry Kane - 9: A captain's performance. Scored twice, including a pressure penalty and a towering header, equalling Gary Lineker's World Cup goal record. Could have had more but for the goalkeeper's saves.
Anthony Gordon - 7: Started ahead of Marcus Rashford and offered a consistent wide threat, a dimension England lacked at Euro 2024.
Substitutes
Bukayo Saka (73') - 7: Set up Rashford's goal and gained valuable minutes.
Marcus Rashford (73') - 8: Scored with composure late on, staking a claim for a starting spot.
Morgan Rogers (73') - 6: Made an immediate impact with a mazy run.
Djed Spence (80') - 6: Came on for Bellingham as James moved into midfield. Almost scored but was denied by the keeper.
Marc Guehi (87') - N/A: Late introduction.
