World Cup – England Open Campaign With Convincing Victory Over Croatia
World Cup – England made an impressive start to their FIFA World Cup 2026 journey by defeating Croatia 4-2 at Dallas Stadium in Texas on Wednesday. The result provided a strong foundation for the team as they began their quest for success in the tournament, with captain Harry Kane leading from the front through a memorable display.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised England’s performance after the match, describing it as an achievement the team could be proud of. In a message shared on social media platform X, Starmer congratulated the squad and expressed optimism ahead of their upcoming fixture against Ghana on June 23.
Government Applauds Strong Opening Result
Following the final whistle, Starmer highlighted the significance of the victory and commended the players for their effort against a competitive Croatian side. The Prime Minister noted that the team had delivered an encouraging performance and urged them to maintain momentum heading into the next stage of the competition.
Early Penalty Gives England the Advantage
England earned a golden opportunity to take control of the match in the opening stages. Noni Madueke was brought down inside the penalty area after a challenge from Croatian veteran Luka Modric, leading to a spot kick in the 11th minute.
Although Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic initially denied Harry Kane, a Video Assistant Referee review determined that the goalkeeper had moved off his line before the shot was taken. The penalty was ordered to be retaken, and Kane successfully converted on his second attempt to hand England an early lead.
Croatia Fight Back Before Half-Time
Croatia responded positively after conceding and gradually increased pressure on England’s defence. Their persistence paid off in the 36th minute when Martin Baturina found the net.
The move began with an impressive run from Luka Sucic, who advanced into a dangerous area before delivering a precise pass into the box. Baturina met the ball confidently and fired beyond goalkeeper Jordan Pickford to restore parity.
However, England regained control before the interval. Kane struck again in the 42nd minute, restoring his side’s advantage and ensuring they entered the break with momentum firmly on their side.
Bellingham and Rashford Seal the Win
England continued to create chances in the second half and eventually widened the gap through Jude Bellingham. The midfielder produced a standout finish that further strengthened England’s position.
Later in the contest, substitute Marcus Rashford added another goal to put the result beyond doubt. Despite Croatia’s determination throughout the match, England managed the closing stages effectively and secured a valuable opening victory under manager Thomas Tuchel.
Kane Reaches Historic World Cup Milestones
The match also marked another landmark moment in Harry Kane’s international career. By scoring twice against Croatia, the striker became only the second England player to register goals in three different FIFA World Cup tournaments, following the achievement previously set by David Beckham.
Kane also reached 10 World Cup goals, matching the record held by former England star Gary Lineker for the most goals scored by an England player in the tournament’s history.
In addition, the Bayern Munich forward established a new World Cup record by scoring his fifth successful penalty during regular tournament play, the highest tally of its kind in FIFA World Cup history.
Perisic Achieves Rare Tournament Feat
Croatian winger Ivan Perisic also entered the record books during the encounter. His assist against England made him only the second player ever to provide assists in four separate FIFA World Cup tournaments.
The experienced Croatian joined Argentine icon Lionel Messi in achieving the remarkable milestone, further underlining his consistency on football’s biggest stage.