England opened their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L campaign with a thrilling 4-2 win over Croatia, surviving a strong fightback from the Croatians in an entertaining encounter.
The Three Lions started brightly and took the lead in the 36th minute when captain Harry Kane converted from the penalty spot after sustained first-half pressure.
Croatia responded quickly, with Martin Baturina restoring parity six minutes later after linking up well with Petar Sučić, silencing the England fans and shifting momentum.
Just when it looked like both sides would go into the break level, Kane struck again in first-half stoppage time. The Bayern Munich forward finished off a Declan Rice assist to hand England a 2-1 lead at halftime.
The second half began in dramatic fashion as Croatia equalised again through Petar Musa in the 47th minute, keeping the contest finely poised.
With the game hanging in the balance, England eventually regained control late on when Jude Bellingham scored in the 85th minute to put them ahead once more.
Marcus Rashford then wrapped up the victory in stoppage time, finishing off a Bukayo Saka assist to secure all three points for England.
The result gives England a strong start to their World Cup campaign, while Croatia will be left frustrated after twice fighting back but failing to earn anything from the match.
