England began their 2026 World Cup campaign with a pulsating 4-2 victory over Croatia in a Group L opening fixture in Arlington, Texas, on Wednesday. Thomas Tuchel's side survived a back-and-forth battle in a heavyweight clash that lived up to its billing.
Harry Kane, the Bayern Munich striker, scored twice to equal the English record for World Cup goals. His early goals were canceled out by Croatia in the opening half, leading to a breathless start to England's quest for glory.
The victory was sealed in the second 45 minutes when Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford delivered the knockout blows. Bellingham scored two minutes into the second half, helping England secure the win.
The meeting carried heavy expectations given the history between the sides, as Croatia's extra-time victory over England in the 2018 World Cup semi-finals added an extra edge to the occasion.