DALLAS, United States — Captain Harry Kane scored a vital brace as England launched their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Croatia at the Dallas Stadium.
The high-scoring Group L opening fixture saw Thomas Tuchel’s side secure their first maximum points of the tournament after an intense battle against the Europeans.
Okay News sports reports that England captain Harry Kane opened the scoring early from the penalty spot before heading in his second of the match to equal Gary Lineker’s historic record of 10 World Cup goals for his country. Croatia fought back twice in the first half with goals from Martin Baturina and Petar Musa, exploiting defensive lapses to keep the scores level at the break.
The Three Lions reasserted their dominance immediately after the interval when Real Madrid playmaker Jude Bellingham finished off a brilliant 23-pass move to restore the lead. Arsenal winger Noni Madueke caused constant problems down the right flank, while substitute Marcus Rashford sealed the victory with a composed finish in the 85th minute. With the win secured, England turns their attention to their second group stage fixture against Ghana, while structural defensive concerns remain a key talking point for Tuchel going forward.
