England 4-2 Croatia: Three Lions Make Winning Start To World Cup 2026

England began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with an impressive 4-2 victory over Croatia, overcoming two Croatian fightbacks before Marcus Rashford's late strike secured all three points in Group L.

Thomas Tuchel's side made a bright start and were rewarded after 12 minutes when Harry Kane converted a retaken penalty. The England captain initially saw his effort saved by Dominik Livakovic, but a VAR review ordered a retake for encroachment and Kane made no mistake with his second attempt.

Croatia responded strongly and gradually grew into the contest. Their reward arrived in the 36th minute when Martin Baturina produced a superb finish to level the scores at 1-1.

England restored their advantage shortly before the break. Declan Rice delivered an inviting cross into the area and Kane rose highest to power home his second goal of the evening, putting the Three Lions back in front while also drawing level with Gary Lineker's England World Cup goals record.

However, Croatia struck a significant blow deep into first-half stoppage time. With five additional minutes signalled, Petar Musa found the net in the fifth minute of added time to make it 2-2 at half time and leave England frustrated after surrendering the lead for a second time.

Any concerns inside the England camp were quickly eased after tough talks from England's Head Coach Tuchel.

Just two minutes into the second half, Jude Bellingham produced another decisive moment on the pitch. The midfielder finished confidently to restore England's lead at 3-2 and hand Tuchel's side the perfect start to the second period.

Croatia continued to threaten and remained within touching distance throughout much of the second half, but England gradually began to take control. As the match entered its closing stages, the Three Lions looked increasingly comfortable.

The decisive moment arrived in the 85th minute when Marcus Rashford added England's fourth goal of the evening after coming on as a substitute. The strike finally ended Croatian hopes of a comeback and ensured England would begin their World Cup campaign with a deserved victory.

Six minutes of stoppage time were added at the end of the second half, but England saw out the remaining moments comfortably to secure an important three points in Group L.

While there will still be aspects of the performance that Tuchel will want to refine, particularly after seeing Croatia equalise twice, England leave their opening fixture with confidence, momentum and a valuable victory against experienced opposition.

With Ghana next up for the Three Lions, England have laid down an early marker and shown they possess both the quality and character required to compete in the tournament.

Goals

England: Harry Kane (12' pen, 42'), Jude Bellingham (47'), Marcus Rashford (85')

Croatia: Martin Baturina (36'), Petar Musa (45+5')