Dallas: England have made a winning start to their World Cup campaign after defeating Croatia in a dramatic Group L encounter in Dallas. The match featured attacking quality from both sides as England eventually secured a valuable victory in one of the tournament’s most entertaining contests so far.
Harry Kane gave England an early lead from the penalty spot in the 12th minute after Luka Modric fouled Noni Madueke. Although Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic saved the initial attempt, the penalty was ordered to be retaken after officials ruled that players had encroached and the goalkeeper had moved off the line. Kane converted the second effort to put England ahead.
Croatia responded strongly and levelled the match in the 36th minute when Martin Baturina produced a powerful strike that beat Jordan Pickford. England regained the advantage shortly before half-time as Kane headed home from a Declan Rice corner, bringing the striker level with Gary Lineker’s England record of 10 World Cup goals.
Job done on matchday ☝️
Read our full match report from Dallas 📰
— England (@England) June 17, 2026
The lead was short-lived as Croatia struck again just before the break. Petar Musa finished a well-worked move after Ivan Perisic cleverly redirected a pass into the danger area, sending the teams into half-time level at 2-2.
England regained control moments after the restart when Jude Bellingham surged forward and finished confidently to restore the advantage. The midfielder justified his selection with an influential display in the centre of the pitch as England looked increasingly dangerous going forward.
Substitute Marcus Rashford sealed the victory with a composed finish five minutes from time. The World Cup win moved England to a strong position in Group L ahead of their next match against Ghana, while Croatia were left to reflect on missed opportunities despite an impressive attacking performance.
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