Harry Kane continued his impressive form in front of goal as England made an early World Cup statement in a thriller against fellow European giant Croatia.
The Bayern Munich forward twice gave England the lead against the team who bested them back in the World Cup semi-finals eight years ago before Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford got in on the act to seal a memorable win.
Despite a nervy start to proceedings, England scored the first goal as Kane converted from the spot after Luka Modric brought down Noni Madueke.
Croatia fought back some minutes later as Jordan Pickford has no answer to a fine strike from Martin Baturina from the edge of the box.
However, Kane restored England’s lead by powering home a header from a magnificent Declan Rice corner but again Croatia would restore parity, this time through Petar Musa.
Harry Kane put in an impressive performance as England defeat Croatia in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L match. (Photo by Maja Hitij – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
90 seconds into the second half, England restored their lead through Real Madrid playmaker Jude Bellingham.
England continued to pepper their opponents goal and eventually got their reward, adding a slick fourth in the dying embers of the game through an ice-cool Marcus Rashford.
Thomas Tuchel will be more than pleased to see his team start their World Cup campaign with a win as Kane equals Gary Lineker on the record of England player with most World Cup goals.
All eyes will now be on the former Tottenham Hotspur forward to set a new record as England progresses in the tournament.
