England made a strong start to their World Cup campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia, powered by a brace from captain Harry Kane and further goals from Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford.
Kane put England ahead early from the penalty spot after a retake in the 12th minute, but Croatia responded through Martin Baturina, whose strike found its way past Jordan Pickford. Kane restored England’s advantage before halftime, heading home from a Declan Rice corner to draw level with Gary Lineker’s record of 10 World Cup goals for England.
Croatia struck back again just before the break when Petar Musa finished a move created by Ivan Perisic. England regained control shortly after halftime as Bellingham surged forward from midfield and slotted home via the post.
Rashford then sealed the result five minutes from time, finishing a swift counterattack to secure three valuable points and place England in a strong position in Group L ahead of matches involving Ghana and Panama.
