Kane Double Leads England Past Croatia in Six-Goal Thriller

Group Stage · Group L · AT&T Stadium, Arlington · June 17, 2026

Harry Kane scored twice as England beat Croatia 4-2 in a six-goal opener in Arlington.

Kane put England ahead from the penalty spot in the 12th minute. Martin Baturina equalized in the 36th, set up by Petar Sučić, before Kane restored the lead six minutes later from Declan Rice’s pass. Croatia leveled again in first-half stoppage time through Petar Musa, from Ivan Perišić’s assist.

England took control after the break. Jude Bellingham scored two minutes into the second half, set up by Elliot Anderson, and substitute Marcus Rashford sealed it in the 85th minute from Bukayo Saka’s pass.

England had 22 shots, 11 on target, and 3.20 expected goals. Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livaković made seven saves to keep the score down.

England lead Group L. Ghana and Panama play later today.

More: England at the 2026 World Cup · Croatia at the 2026 World Cup · Group L guide

ESO Soccer Match Desk

Archive coverage. First published on ESO Soccer on October 1, 2026. The archive date reflects the events covered.