England began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in impressive fashion with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Croatia in Dallas, with captain Harry Kane producing a man-of-the-match performance.
Thomas Tuchel’s side showed attacking quality throughout the contest, scoring four goals to secure all three points in their opening Group match.
Kane was the standout performer for the Three Lions. The Bayern Munich striker scored twice, including a retaken penalty and a powerful header from a Declan Rice set-piece. He also linked up well with Noni Madueke and was voted Player of the Match with an average rating of 8.32.
Jude Bellingham also impressed in the number 10 role. The Real Madrid midfielder scored England’s third goal and looked dangerous whenever he drove forward. His display earned him a rating of 7.
Madueke was another bright spark in attack. The winger’s pace caused Croatia several problems and his intelligent movement won England’s penalty. He finished with a rating of 7.
In midfield, Rice delivered another commanding performance. The Arsenal star provided the assist for Kane’s second goal and created two more opportunities from set-pieces. Elliot Anderson also continued his promising start to international football, providing the pass that led to Bellingham’s goal.
Substitutes Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka made important contributions after coming on in the second half. Rashford scored England’s fourth goal with a composed finish after being set up by Saka.
While England’s attack flourished, there were some concerns at the back. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford endured a mixed evening and may feel he could have done better with Croatia’s opening goal.
Central defenders John Stones and Ezri Konsa also looked short of understanding at times as Croatia managed to score twice against the new-look defence.
Nico O’Reilly, making his first start at a major tournament, delivered a solid display and came close to scoring from two second-half corners, while Reece James improved as the game progressed despite a relatively quiet outing.
The result gives England the perfect start to their World Cup campaign and will boost confidence ahead of their next group-stage fixture.
England Player Ratings
Harry Kane – 8
Jude Bellingham – 7
Noni Madueke – 7
Declan Rice – 7
Marcus Rashford – 7
Bukayo Saka – 7
Elliot Anderson – 6
Nico O’Reilly – 6
Reece James – 6
Anthony Gordon – 6
Morgan Rogers – 6
Djed Spence – 6
Marc Guehi – 6
Jordan Pickford – 5
John Stones – 5
Ezri Konsa – 5
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