England defeats Croatia 4-2 in World Cup 2026 opening match

England opened the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 4-2 victory over Croatia at the Arlington stadium in Dallas. Striker Harry Kane scored twice, converting a header from a Declan Rice corner and a penalty, while the team also benefited from goals by Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford. Goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic made several key saves for Croatia, but England held on despite moments of pressure.

England manager Thomas Tuchel, who is also training the squad at the team's Kansas City base, recently threw the ceremonial first pitch at a Major League Baseball game, highlighting the cross‑sport promotion surrounding the tournament.

The win gives the Three Lions a strong start to their group stage campaign and sets up their next group match against the United States.