England leads Croatia 4-2 in World Cup opener under Tuchel

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 10:31 PM

Last updated Jun 17, 2026

England leads Croatia 4-2 in World Cup opener under Tuchel
Summary

England started their World Cup campaign with a 4-2 lead over Croatia on June 17. Harry Kane scored from the penalty spot, and after Croatia equalized, Kane scored again. Jude Bellingham added a goal for England with a well-executed 23-pass move, and Marcus Rashford sealed the lead late in the match. Thomas Tuchel became the first foreign manager to win his debut match as England's coach at a major tournament.

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By the Numbers
  • Kane scored two goals, including one from the penalty spot.
  • Croatia equalized twice before England pulled ahead again.
  • Bellingham completed a 23-pass move for the go-ahead goal.
  • Tuchel's victory creates history as first foreign manager to debut with a win.
Latest Updates
  • 10:31 PMYahoo SportsThomas Tuchel makes history as England beat Croatia in first World Cup game
What they're saying
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Thomas Tuchel has made history as England kicked off their World Cup campaign with a win against Croatia. It was a topsy-turvy game that saw Harry Kane score from the penalty spot at the second attempt before Martin Baturina equalised.

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