Harry Kane Hits Historic Milestone in England’s Victory Over Croatia

England kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in style with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Croatia, as captain Harry Kane scored twice to equal Gary Lineker’s record of 10 World Cup goals for the Three Lions.

The Group L clash at Dallas Stadium lived up to expectations, with England’s attacking firepower proving decisive in a match that swung back and forth before Thomas Tuchel’s side took control in the second half.

Kane opened the scoring in the 12th minute from the penalty spot after being granted a retake when Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic was judged to have moved off his line too early. Croatia responded through Martin Baturina, who capitalized on defensive lapses to bring his side level.

The England captain restored his team’s lead shortly before halftime, rising highest to power home a header from a Declan Rice corner. The goal moved Kane level with England legend Gary Lineker as the nation’s joint-highest scorer in World Cup history with 10 goals.

However, Croatia refused to back down. Deep into first-half stoppage time, Petar Musa converted after clever work from Ivan Perisic to make it 2-2 and leave the contest finely poised heading into the break.

England emerged from the dressing room with renewed energy, and just two minutes into the second half Jude Bellingham produced a moment of brilliance. The midfielder surged forward before finishing clinically to restore England’s advantage. Marcus Rashford then sealed the victory in the 85th minute with a well-taken goal on the counterattack.

While England’s attacking display will delight supporters, the match also exposed defensive vulnerabilities that Tuchel will be keen to address before tougher tests later in the tournament. Croatia twice found a way back into the game, taking advantage of mistakes in England’s midfield and back line.

Speaking after the match, Bellingham credited Tuchel’s halftime message for England’s improved second-half performance, while Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic lamented his side’s poor defending from set pieces.

The victory places England in a strong position in Group L, which also includes Ghana and Panama. England will face Ghana next, while Croatia will look to bounce back against Panama as both teams continue their quest for a place in the knockout rounds.