England began their World Cup campaign with an entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia on Wednesday, with captain Harry Kane scoring twice to help Thomas Tuchel’s side secure all three points in Texas.
In a pulsating encounter played before a crowd of 70,000, England surrendered the lead twice in the first half before goals from Jude Bellingham and substitute Marcus Rashford sealed the win after the break.
The result marked a positive start for Tuchel, who is aiming to guide England to their first major international trophy since 1966.
England made a nervous opening but were handed an early opportunity when Croatia captain Luka Modric brought down Noni Madueke inside the penalty area.
Kane’s initial spot-kick was saved by goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic, but French referee Clement Turpin ordered a retake after video review showed the Croatian goalkeeper had moved off his line.
The Bayern Munich striker made no mistake with his second attempt, firing home in the 12th minute to give England the lead.
England continued to dominate possession and create chances, with Bellingham coming close as Croatia struggled to contain the Three Lions’ attacking pressure.
However, Croatia levelled the score in the 36th minute after England lost possession in midfield. Petar Sucic produced a clever piece of skill to beat John Stones before setting up Martin Baturina, who fired past Jordan Pickford.
The parity lasted only six minutes.
A corner from Declan Rice found Kane unmarked in the box, and the England captain headed home his second goal of the night to restore his side’s advantage.
The strike took Kane’s World Cup tally to 10 goals, equalling the record held by former England striker Gary Lineker.
Croatia responded once again before half-time. In stoppage time, Petar Musa capitalised on defensive uncertainty to finish from close range and make it 2-2.
England regained control almost immediately after the restart.
Just two minutes into the second half, Bellingham burst forward down the right flank and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner to put England ahead for a third time.
The Real Madrid midfielder was one of England’s standout performers, repeatedly causing problems for the Croatian defence with his pace and creativity.
England had several opportunities to extend their lead, with Kane, Nico O’Reilly and Bellingham all going close as Croatia struggled to cope with the relentless pressure.
Despite creating chances of their own late in the game, Croatia could not find another equaliser.
Instead, Rashford wrapped up the victory in the 85th minute, finishing clinically to ensure England opened their World Cup campaign with an impressive win.
The result gives England an early boost in their quest for World Cup glory, while Croatia will be left to reflect on defensive lapses that proved costly despite their spirited performance.
