Sports News Report
League: MLSSport: SoccerCountry: EnglandCategory: Playoffs

Bellingham leads England with key goal in World Cup opener against Croatia

3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 12:12 AM

Last updated Jun 18, 2026

Bellingham leads England with key goal in World Cup opener against Croatia
Summary

Jude Bellingham scored a crucial goal shortly after halftime as England faced Croatia in their World Cup opener in Dallas. Despite a tough season at club level, Bellingham felt motivated by external criticisms of his position in the national team. The match saw England secure a 4-2 victory, with Bellingham highlighting his determination to prove his value on the international stage. England's win places them in a strong position as they continue their World Cup campaign.

Source Links
Yahoo SportsBBC Sport
Status Watch
  • •Bellingham scored the third goal in the 4-2 win over Croatia.
  • •This match marks Bellingham's fourth consecutive major tournament for England.
  • •England twice surrendered a one-goal lead before securing the victory.
  • •Coach Thomas Tuchel favored Bellingham over Morgan Rogers for the starting role.
  • •Bellingham expressed motivation from external criticism ahead of the match.
Latest Updates
  • 12:12 AMYahoo Sports — 'Chip on shoulder' may help Bellingham to best form
  • 12:12 AMBBC Sport — 'Chip on shoulder' may help Bellingham to best form
What they're saying
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Jude Bellingham says the external "noise" around his place in the England team may help him find his best form during the World Cup.

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Jude Bellingham says the external "noise" around his place in the England team may help him find his best form during the World Cup.

Related Teams & Leagues
FC DallasBarcelonaBorussia DortmundAston VillaReal MadridAtletico MadridMLSSoccer

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