England kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a 4-2 win over Croatia on Wednesday night, as goals from Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford secured all the spoils for the Three Lions.
Kane struck from the spot early on after Luka Modric had fouled Noni Madueke. The England captain’s initial effort was saved by Dominik Livakovic, but he was handed a second chance because the Croatia shotstopper had come off his line before the ball was kicked.
Madueke was again involved as England pushed for a second as he put in a teasing low cross for Bellingham, who came close to getting on the end of the Arsenal man’s ball.
Croatia were level with 10 minutes of the half to go after Martin Baturina brilliantly rifled past Jordan Pickford from 20 yards. However, their joy lasted only five minutes as Kane powered a fine Declan Rice corner past Livakovic.
Zlatko Dalic’s side came from behind for a second time in the opening 45 after Ivan Perisic beat the offside trap to tee up Petar Musa. He made no mistake from close range seconds before half-time.
Bellingham, though, put England back in front five minutes after the break, beating Livakovic from a tight angle. Tuchel’s side huffed and puffed for a fourth, but were met by an inspired Livakovic, who kept Nico O’Reilly, Rice and Kane at bay.
It was not until the 85th minute, however, that England stretched their advantage as substitute Marcus Rashford kept his composure to add the Three Lions’ fourth and wrap up the three points.
