England Begin World Cup 2026 Campaign with 4-2 Win Over Croatia
Harry Kane scored twice, including a retaken penalty, as England defeated Croatia 4-2 in their World Cup 2026 opener in Texas. Jude Bellingham and substitute Marcus Rashford also found the net for Thomas Tuchel’s side.
England launched their World Cup 2026 campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia in front of 70,000 fans at the Dallas Cowboys' stadium in Texas on Wednesday.
First half drama
Harry Kane opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 12th minute, but his initial effort was saved by Dominik Livakovic. Referee Clement Turpin ordered a retake after video replays showed the goalkeeper had come off his line. Kane made no mistake the second time, slotting home to give England the lead. Croatia equalized in the 36th minute through Martin Baturina, who finished neatly after Petar Sucic’s skillful run. Kane restored England’s advantage with a header from Declan Rice’s corner, making it 2-1. However, in first-half stoppage time, Petar Musa capitalized on poor defending to make it 2-2.
Second half surge
Jude Bellingham put England ahead again just two minutes into the second half, racing down the right and rolling the ball into the corner. England dominated the next phase, creating several chances, but failed to extend the lead until Marcus Rashford scored with five minutes remaining, slotting home after a counter-attack. Croatia had opportunities late on but could not find a third goal.
Thomas Tuchel’s side, aiming to win England’s first major trophy since 1966, showed resilience despite a nervy start. The match was a repeat of the 2018 semi-final, which Croatia won, but England have now had the edge in recent meetings.
