
18 June 2026
England Thrash Croatia 4-2 in Breathless World Cup Opener
Thomas Tuchel's side dazzled in the second half but a shaky defence left the England boss with plenty to think about.
England got their 2026 World Cup campaign off to a flying start with a 4-2 victory over Croatia in Texas, according to Sky Sports. Goals from Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford were among the highlights in what was an attacking masterclass from the Three Lions.
The match told two very different stories. In attack, England were relentless and clinical, giving their fans a highlights reel full of moments to cherish. At the back, however, they looked nervous and uncertain, and Sky Sports notes that some of the defending will give Tuchel cause for sleepless nights.
The result is a reversal of England's Euro 2024 pattern under Gareth Southgate, where defensive solidity came at the cost of attacking flair. Here in Texas, the flair was on full display, though at a price. England's next test comes against Ghana on Tuesday night in Group L.
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