Kane Shines as England Wins Exciting Opener Against Croatia

England started their 2026 FIFA World Cup journey with a thrilling 4-2 win over Croatia. Captain Harry Kane scored two goals, helping the Three Lions secure all three points.

This win was England’s first 4-2 victory at a World Cup since they beat West Germany in the famous 1966 final. It also marked a winning start for new manager Thomas Tuchel at a major tournament.

Kane kicked things off by converting a penalty after referee Clément Turpin noticed Luka Modrić fouled Noni Madueke in the box. Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livaković saved the first penalty. But the kick was retaken due to encroachment, and Kane made no mistake on the second attempt.

Croatia answered back with Martin Baturina scoring a powerful goal that beat Jordan Pickford, leveling the match. Kane put England ahead again with a well-placed header from a Declan Rice corner, drawing level with former striker Gary Lineker’s record of 10 World Cup goals for England.

Just before halftime, Croatia struck again. Petar Musa scored from close range after Ivan Perišić’s knockdown, sending the teams into the break tied at 2-2.

After the break, England took control quickly. Jude Bellingham, the youngest European player to play in four major international tournaments, scored smartly from Elliot Anderson’s pass, putting England ahead 3-2.

Tuchel’s team kept creating chances but Livaković was in fine form, making several great saves to keep Croatia in the game. Pickford also had to step up as Croatia pushed for another equalizer.

England finally secured the win late in the match. Substitutes Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford combined well. Saka made a great run and pass for Rashford, who calmly scored to make it 4-2.

Kane’s two goals also made him join former England captain David Beckham as only the second English player to score at three different World Cups. He had also scored in 2018 and 2022.

This victory adds to England’s strong history in World Cup openers. Croatia now faces the need to bounce back after another tough start to a tournament.