England opened their FIFA World Cup campaign with an entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia in Dallas, overcoming a determined Croatian side to make a winning start in Group L.
Thomas Tuchel’s men showcased their attacking prowess but also revealed defensive vulnerabilities in a pulsating encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
The Three Lions drew first blood in the 12th minute when captain Harry Kane converted a penalty after Luka Modric fouled Noni Madueke inside the box. Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic initially saved Kane’s effort, but the spot-kick was ordered to be retaken after the keeper was adjudged to have moved off his line prematurely. Kane made no mistake with his second attempt.
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Croatia responded strongly and restored parity in the 36th minute. Martin Baturina unleashed a fierce strike that flew past Jordan Pickford, who managed to get a hand to the ball but could not keep it out.
England regained the lead three minutes before the break when Kane rose highest to power home Declan Rice’s corner. The goal was Kane’s 10th at the World Cup, drawing him level with Gary Lineker and marking his 81st goal in 115 appearances for England.
However, Croatia refused to surrender and levelled again moments before halftime. Petar Musa finished off a well-worked move by steering Ivan Perisic’s header beyond Pickford.
England seized control shortly after the restart through Jude Bellingham, who justified his selection with a brilliant solo effort, driving forward before calmly finishing to restore his side’s advantage.
Substitute Marcus Rashford sealed the victory five minutes from time with a composed finish, ensuring England claimed all three points and moved confidently towards their next Group L fixture against Ghana in Boston.