England edged Croatia in a rollercoaster opener as their World Cup campaign began with a hard-fought victory in Dallas on Wednesday, June 17, 2026.
Thomas Tuchel’s side combined potent attack with defensive vulnerability but had enough firepower to secure three points in Group L.
Harry Kane opened the scoring in the 12th minute from a retaken penalty after Croatia’s Luka Modric fouled Noni Madueke; goalkeeper Dominik Livaković saved the first spot-kick but was penalized for encroachment.
Croatia replied in the 36th minute when Martin Baturina unleashed a fierce shot that beat Jordan Pickford, who managed a touch but could not keep it out.
Kane restored England’s lead three minutes before halftime, rising to power home Declan Rice’s corner with a header - his 10th World Cup goal and 81st goal for England, equalling Gary Lineker’s tournament record.
England never settled at the back, and Croatia struck again just before halftime when Petar Musa nodded Ivan Perišić’s header into the net after a slick build-up.
Moments into the second half, Jude Bellingham justified Tuchel’s faith with a driving run and clinical finish that put England back in charge.
Substitute Marcus Rashford then wrapped up the win with a composed strike five minutes from time, sealing a crucial victory ahead of England’s next match against Ghana in Boston.
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