England opened their 2026 World Cup campaign with a thrilling 4-2 win over Croatia in Texas on Wednesday, as Harry Kane’s double set the tone for Thomas Tuchel’s side in a dramatic encounter.
The match, a repeat of their 2018 semi-final—won 2-1 by Croatia after extra time, ended differently this time, with England overcoming a spirited comeback from the 2018 runners-up.
Harry Kane scored twice in the first half as England eventually saw off Croatia 4-2 to launch their World Cup title assault in Texas on Wednesday.
Jude Bellingham struck immediately after the break, while substitute Marcus Rashford added a late goal to secure victory after Croatia had briefly drawn level at 2-2.
England began brightly but nervously, and early tension quickly escalated into controversy.
Croatia captain Luka Modric brought down Noni Madueke in the penalty area, handing England a spot-kick.
Kane’s initial effort was saved by Dominik Livakovic, but French referee Clement Turpin ordered a retake after VAR ruled the goalkeeper had stepped off his line.
Kane made no mistake second time, sending England ahead after 12 minutes.
The momentum shifted heavily towards England, with Bellingham pulling strings in midfield and forcing saves from Livakovic.
However, the lead could have been doubled when Bellingham narrowly missed a low cross from Madueke.
Croatia fought back in the 36th minute after England lost possession in midfield.
Petar Sucic’s clever footwork left John Stones off balance before Martin Baturina finished clinically, beating Jordan Pickford despite the goalkeeper getting a hand to it.
England restored their lead just six minutes later.
Declan Rice delivered a corner which found Kane unmarked, and the captain headed home to reach 10 World Cup goals—matching Gary Lineker as England’s joint top scorer in the competition.
However, Croatia struck again in stoppage time of the first half when Petar Musa capitalised on defensive lapses to level the match at 2-2, leaving England frustrated at the break.
The second half resumed in explosive fashion. Bellingham surged forward within two minutes of the restart and calmly finished to put England back in front.
England pushed for more, with Kane, Nico O’Reilly and Bellingham all missing chances to extend the lead despite sustained pressure on the Croatian defence.
Croatia threatened as England dropped deeper in the closing stages, but Marcus Rashford sealed the result with five minutes remaining, ensuring a winning start for Tuchel’s side.
England’s 4-2 victory highlighted both attacking power and defensive vulnerability, but ultimately delivered the opening statement Tuchel needed in his bid to guide the team toward a first major trophy since 1966.
