England opened their World Cup campaign in style with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Croatia in a six-goal encounter that showcased the Three Lions’ attacking quality.
Harry Kane handed England the lead in the 12th minute, calmly converting from the penalty spot after a foul inside the box.
The advantage, however, lasted only until the 36th minute when Martin Baturina finished brilliantly to draw Croatia level.
The response from Thomas Tuchel’s side was immediate.
Kane restored England’s lead three minutes before the break with his second goal of the night, only for Croatia to hit back again in stoppage time to ensure the teams went into halftime locked at 2-2 after an entertaining first 45 minutes.
England regained control shortly after the restart as Jude Bellingham struck in the 47th minute, giving the European side renewed momentum.
Croatia struggled to contain England’s attacking pressure, and substitute Marcus Rashford made a decisive impact after coming on in the 72nd minute.
With five minutes remaining, Rashford put the result beyond doubt, finishing off a swift move to seal England’s fourth goal and complete a convincing victory.
The result gives England a winning start to their World Cup journey and puts them in a strong position ahead of their remaining group-stage fixtures, while Kane’s brace underlined his importance as the Three Lions’ talisman.
(The Whistler)
