Harry Kane scored twice, doubling his tournament tally inside 90 minutes, as England opened their 2026 World Cup campaign with a superb 4-2 win over Croatia in Dallas on Wednesday.
Kane was fortunate to retake his first-half penalty, but made no mistake the second time. He then added a second with a great header from a set-piece, supplied by Declan Rice’s excellent delivery. Rice, whose powerful running and set-piece work were key, also set up two chances for Nico O’Reilly.
“Harry Kane scores twice as England beat Croatia 4-2 in their 2026 World Cup opener in Dallas.”
Croatia had taken the lead, and Jordan Pickford may feel he could have done better with their first goal. The goalkeeper had some wayward clearances in the first half. But England responded. Jude Bellingham, trusted in the number 10 role, put England 3-2 up with a good finish after a pass from Elliot Anderson, who showed impressive maturity.
Noni Madueke was England’s most dangerous attacker, his reading of the game winning the penalty. His pace in behind caused constant problems. “His pace in behind meant he was England’s most dangerous attacker,” BBC Sport reported.
Marcus Rashford, introduced in the 72nd minute, showed elite finishing ability to roll the ball into the bottom corner for England’s fourth. Bukayo Saka, also off the bench, assisted Rashford. Morgan Rogers replaced Rice and always looked to pick up the ball.
Defensively, there were signs that John Stones and Ezri Konsa need more time together as a partnership in a major tournament. Konsa has been one of Thomas Tuchel’s favourites since he took the job, but they conceded two goals. Reece James grew into the game but was quieter. Anthony Gordon provided energy but lacked cutting edge, while O’Reilly, making his first major tournament start, showed some nerves but was solid.
England’s attack flowed through Kane dropping deep to release Madueke, a partnership that looks to be flourishing. The 4-2 scoreline was a statement from Tuchel’s side, but the defensive lapses leave room for improvement as the tournament continues.