Harry Kane Scores as England Leads Croatia in World Cup 2026 Opener

England has taken the lead against Croatia with a score of 1-0 in their opening match of the group stage at the 2026 World Cup.

The English team was awarded a penalty after Luka Modric fouled Noni Madueke inside the box.

Harry Kane stepped up to take the initial penalty but was unable to convert it into a goal as the goalkeeper made a save. However, the referee ordered a retake of the penalty.

The retake was granted after it was determined that the goalkeeper had moved off his line before the kick was taken, prompting the referee to allow England another attempt.

In the second attempt, Kane successfully found the back of the net with a powerful low shot that nestled into the bottom right corner, giving the Three Lions an early advantage in the match.

England’s Lineup Against Croatia in World Cup 2026

Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford.

Defense: Nico O’Reilly – Konsa – Stones – Reece James.

Midfield: Declan Rice – Elliot Anderson – Jude Bellingham.

Attack: Anthony Gordon – Noni Madueke – Harry Kane.

Croatia’s Lineup Against England in World Cup 2026

Goalkeeper: Dominik Livaković.

Defense: Joško Stanišić – Josko Gvardiol – Josip Sutalo – Luka Vuskovic.

Midfield: Luka Modric – Mario Pašalić – Martin Baturina – Petar Sučić.

Attack: Ivan Perišić – Petar Musa.