​World Cup 2026: England 4-2 Croatia; Kane Scores Twice; Livaković Makes 7 Saves but Can't Prevent Defeat

June 18 – In a World Cup group stage match, England faced Croatia. In the first half, Modrić conceded a penalty, Kane's initial spot-kick was saved, but he scored on the retake. Baturina equalized with a stunning long-range strike. Rice then delivered a corner for Kane to head home, restoring England's lead. In stoppage time, Perišić headed across for Musa to level again. In the second half, Anderson assisted Bellingham to put England ahead once more, and Saka set up Rashford, who calmly finished after cutting inside. England ran out 4-2 winners to secure their first victory of the group stage.

12th minute: Modrić fouled Madueke in the box to concede a penalty. Kane's initial spot-kick was saved by Livaković, but the referee ruled that Livaković had moved off his line early. Kane scored on the retake. England 1-0 Croatia.

37th minute: Baturina struck a brilliant shot from the edge of the box to level the score. Croatia 1-1 England.

42nd minute: Rice delivered a corner, and Kane rose above the defender to head home. England 2-1 Croatia.

45+5 minute: Perišić headed the ball across, and Musa fired home from close range to equalize once more. Croatia 2-2 England.

47th minute: Anderson played a long pass for Bellingham, who drove into the box from the right and scored. England 3-2 Croatia.

55th minute: A corner reached the box, but Livaković made three rapid saves to deny England another goal.

57th minute: Kane shot low from the left side of the box, but Livaković reacted quickly to block the effort.

76th minute: Pašalić cut inside from the right and shot, but Pickford reacted well to save.

81st minute: Spence made a quick run into the box from the right, but Livaković rushed out to clear the danger.

85th minute: Saka assisted on the counter, and Rashford cut past a defender before calmly slotting the ball home. England 4-2 Croatia.