England beat Croatia 4–2 in World Cup 2026 group opener

England opened their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding 4–2 victory over Croatia at the Dallas Stadium, powered by a brace from captain Harry Kane.

England made an aggressive start to Group L, with Kane scoring twice to give his side early control. However, Croatia responded each time to keep the contest level.

Croatia’s Martin Baturina and Petar Musa struck to level the match 2–2 at halftime after Kane’s double had given England the lead twice in the first half.

In the second half, Jude Bellingham restored England’s advantage in the 47th minute, before substitute Marcus Rashford sealed the win with a late goal in the 85th minute following a well-worked team move.

England controlled much of the tempo in the second half, while Croatia struggled to match their intensity after the break.

England will next face Ghana in Boston, while Croatia are set to play Panama and Ghana in their remaining group fixtures