England kicked off their World Cup with flair, beating Croatia 4-2 in a six-goal thriller that showed off the Three Lions’ attacking class.
Harry Kane gave England the lead in the 12th minute, calmly drilling home a penalty after a foul in the box. The advantage lasted until the 36th minute, when Martin Baturina finished brilliantly to level the scores. The response from Thomas Tuchel’s side was immediate.
Kane wasn’t done — he restored England’s lead three minutes before the break with his second of the night, only for Croatia to strike again in stoppage time to make it 2-2 at the half after an entertaining first 45.
England regained control early in the second half when Jude Bellingham struck in the 47th minute, giving the European side renewed momentum. Croatia struggled to deal with England’s pressure, and substitute Marcus Rashford made a telling impact after coming on in the 72nd minute.
With five minutes left, Rashford wrapped it up, finishing a quick move to make it 4-2 and seal a convincing win. The result gives England a winning start and underlines Kane’s role as the Three Lions’ talisman.
