Harry Kane scored a brilliant first-half brace to equal Gary Lineker’s national record as England overcame Croatia4-2 in a chaotic, high-scoring Group L opening match.

Second-half strikes from Jude Bellingham and substitute Marcus Rashford secured the three points for Thomas Tuchel’s side at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, ensuring the Three Lions won their opening FIFA World Cup™ fixture for the third consecutive tournament.

A Chaotic Four-Goal First Half

The opening 45 minutes delivered non-stop drama, with England twice taking the lead only for a resilient Croatian side to fight back each time:

• 12th Minute (England 1-0): Newcomer Noni Madueke drew a foul from Luka Modrić in the box. Harry Kane’s initial penalty was saved by Dominik Livaković, but referee Clément Turpin ordered a retake for goalkeeper encroachment. Kane stepped up again and buried it into the same corner.
• 36th Minute (Croatia 1-1): Petar Sučić laid the ball back to Martin Baturina, who curled a spectacular effort into the right-hand corner past Jordan Pickford.
• 42nd Minute (England 2-1): Kane scored his second of the night, meeting a Declan Rice corner with a powerful header to net his 10th career World Cup goal.
• 45+5 Minute (Croatia 2-2): Deep into first-half stoppage time, Ivan Perišić cleverly nodded a Mario Pašalić long ball into the path of Petar Musa, who volleyed home a well-worked equalizer.

Second-Half Dominance Seals It

England emerged from the break with the high-tempo intensity demanded by coach Thomas Tuchel, quickly taking control of the tie:

• 47th Minute (England 3-2): Operating in the number 10 role, Jude Bellingham drove inward from the right wing and fired a low, precise finish across Livaković.
• 85th Minute (England 4-2): Following a dominant spell and a string of fine saves from the Croatian goalkeeper, Bukayo Saka combined brilliantly with fellow substitute Marcus Rashford, who slotted home a composed finish to put the game out of reach.

Group L Standings