Noni Madueke starts for England in World Cup opener against Croatia
BBC Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 22, 2026, 10:47 AM
Last updated Jun 22, 2026
Noni Madueke was named in England's starting line-up for their World Cup opener against Croatia, which took place recently. Madueke, who signed with Arsenal from Chelsea for £50 million last summer, has had a tumultuous season, moving from fan protests to Premier League champion. He was instrumental in a key 4-2 victory over Croatia, winning a penalty for Harry Kane to convert. Bukayo Saka, expected to be the starting winger, is sidelined with an Achilles injury, allowing Madueke an opportunity to shine. He is anticipated to start again against Ghana next week.
- •Madueke scored eight goals and made 43 appearances last season for Arsenal.
- •He started for England against Croatia, contributing to a 4-2 win.
- •Saka's injury opened a spot for Madueke on the right wing.
- •Madueke may play again against Ghana next week.
- •England aims to progress further in the World Cup knockout stages.
- 10:47 AMBBC Sport — Madueke's remarkable season - from petition to World Cup starter
"Noni Madueke has gone from fans protesting against him signing for Arsenal to England World Cup starter. BBC Sport look at his rollercoaster season.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days- EPL•Jun 22, 2026, 1:15 PMSaka returns to England training in boost before Ghana
- Champions League•Jun 22, 2026, 1:15 PMManchester United tell Barcelona and Atletico: Sesko is not for sale
- EPL•Jun 22, 2026, 1:05 PMRice credits Arteta and Jover for set-piece transformation
- EPL•Jun 22, 2026, 12:37 PMRobins eye Clarke as Skubala plans new faces
- EPL•Jun 22, 2026, 12:30 PMArsenal set for transfer windfall as one of their former youth player is in demand
- EPL•Jun 22, 2026, 11:45 AMNewcastle eyeing move for Kees Smit in preparation for Sandro Tonali’s exit
