England 4–2 Croatia: Harry Kane brace inspires chaotic World Cup-opening win
England began their 2026 World Cup campaign with a thrilling 4–2 victory over Croatia in their opening Group L fixture at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, in front of 70,389 spectators. Harry Kane opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 12th minute, converting at the second attempt after the original effort was retaken for encroachment, and his strike equalled Gary Lineker's English record of 10 World Cup goals.
A chaotic first half saw Croatia hit back twice. Martin Baturina struck from the edge of the box in the 36th minute following a John Stones slip, before Kane restored England's lead with a 42nd-minute header from a Declan Rice corner. Petar Musa then levelled deep in first-half stoppage time after Ivan Perisic's pass, sending the sides in at 2–2.
Thomas Tuchel's side took control after the break. Jude Bellingham drilled England back in front in the 47th minute, and substitute Marcus Rashford sealed the win in the 85th minute after being set up by Bukayo Saka. England recorded 22 shots across the match, though defensive frailties drew scrutiny despite the winning start.
Key moments
- •Harry Kane scored twice (a retaken penalty and a header), equalling Gary Lineker's English record of 10 World Cup goals.
- •A frantic first half ended 2–2, with Croatia twice pegging England back through Baturina and Musa.
- •Jude Bellingham restored England's lead just after the restart with a drilled finish.
- •Substitute Marcus Rashford added a fourth in the 85th minute, assisted by fellow substitute Bukayo Saka.
- •England registered 22 shots but defensive lapses, including a John Stones slip, gave Croatia openings.
Timeline
Match facts
- Dallas Stadium, Arlington
- 70,389 attendance
- ▶
- Referee: Clément Turpin (France)
Match report generated from publicly available sources. Facts are drawn from the sources below.