Kane double powers chaotic England past Croatia in six-goal Group L opener

England opened their 2026 World Cup campaign with a chaotic 4-2 win over Croatia at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, a result built on a Harry Kane double and second-half goals from Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford. The six-goal contest set an early benchmark for entertainment in Group L.

A frantic first half

The match exploded into life with a twice-taken penalty. Noni Madueke drew a foul from Luka Modric, and although Dominik Livakovic saved Kane's first attempt, referee Clement Turpin ordered a retake for goalkeeper encroachment and Josko Gvardiol's infringement. Kane buried the second on 12 minutes. Martin Baturina levelled on 36, before Kane headed in a Declan Rice corner on 42 to equal Gary Lineker's record of 10 England World Cup goals. Petar Musa struck deep in stoppage time (45+5) to make it 2-2 at the break.

Substitutes seal it

Bellingham, handed the No. 10 role, restored the lead just after the restart on 47 minutes, driving in from the right and finishing low across Livakovic. The game settled before fellow substitute Bukayo Saka set up Rashford for a composed finish on 85 to seal the win.

The victory put England top of Group L on goal difference and announced their intent, even if the defensive lapses against Croatia's attack will concern Thomas Tuchel ahead of sterner tests.