Harry Kane scored twice as England launched their World Cup campaign with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Croatia, a performance that Thomas Tuchel will hope sends a statement to the rest of the tournament. Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford also found the net in Dallas, with the Three Lions turning on the style after a difficult first half.
The win, however, was not without its concerns. The defence came in for criticism after conceding two goals, with some observers pointing to a lack of midfield control and passive pressing as the root cause. “The worst aspect was the passivity, the lack of serious pressing,” one fan noted. “England haven't got great central defenders so midfield protection is vital.”
“England beat Croatia 4-2 as Harry Kane scores twice in a World Cup statement win under Thomas Tuchel.”
Yet there were ample positives. Kane and Bellingham, both shadows of themselves at the last tournament, looked fit and sharp. “The fact we had some gears we could go through and some real power to bring off the bench bodes well,” another supporter remarked, adding: “It's nice to see a bit of oomph after the years of Southgate tedium.”
The match also featured what many have hailed as a refreshing approach from referees, who have adopted a light touch and allowed play to flow. “They’ve clearly decided to officiate with a light touch and it’s so much better for the game,” a fan commented. “VAR isn’t trying to re-referee every game and I think they’ve got it pretty much spot on so far.”
Tuchel, who made his big calls, saw his side respond after a subdued opening. For a first game, England were fine – but with tougher tests ahead, the defensive frailties will need tightening if the statement is to carry through to the knockouts.