England edge Croatia in five-goal WC thriller

England secured a winning start to their World Cup campaign after overpowering Croatia in a thrilling five goal encounter in Dallas to set the platform for progress in Group L. Thomas Tuchel’s side demonstrated immense strength in attack but significant frailty in defence, ultimately relying on superior firepower to overcome their dangerous opponents.

Captain Harry Kane opened the scoring on 12 minutes with a twice taken penalty after Luka Modric fouled Noni Madueke. Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic saved the first attempt but officials penalised him for encroaching off his goalline, allowing Kane to convert the retake. Croatia drew level after 36 minutes when Martin Baturina sent a powerful drive high past Jordan Pickford, who got a touch but failed to keep the ball out.

Kane restored the English lead 3 minutes before the break with a powerful header from a Declan Rice corner, bringing him level with Gary Lineker on 10 World Cup goals and marking his 81st strike in 115 international appearances. However, the English defence never looked at ease, allowing Croatia to equalise again seconds before half-time when Petar Musa steered an Ivan Perisic header beyond Pickford.

Control returned to the Three Lions moments after the interval when Jude Bellingham justified his selection ahead of Morgan Rogers with a powerful run and clinical finish. Substitute Marcus Rashford ended any lingering concerns with a composed finish 5 minutes from time, sealing the victory before England move on to face Ghana in Boston.

 -BBC