Thanks to a stunning brace from Bayern Munich forward, Harry Kane, England kicked off their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia in their Group L opener on Wednesday 17 June, 2026 at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, United States (US).
The Three Lions, led by Coach Thomas Tuchel, started their journey to the World Cup trophy with a beautiful win, netting two (2) in each half.
Kane, thirty-two (32) years of age, opened the scoring for England in the 12th minute from the penalty spot, but, the Fiery Ones levelled through a fine strike from Martin Baturina in the 32nd minute.
The Three Lions went in front again in the 42nd minute through Kane with an assist from Arsenal midfielder, Declan Rice, but, once again, Croatia levelled through Petar Musa in the 5th minute of first half additional time as the first 45 minutes ended 2-2.
Just two (2) minutes into the second half, Real Madrid midfielder, Jude Bellingham, netted the third for England with a solo effort.
The second half was largely in the control of the Three Lions and in the 85th minute, Arsenal winger, Bukayo Saka, provided for Marcus Rashford, who sealed the win for Tuchel’s side with the fourth. Rashford came on off the bench to net the goal.
In the Group K match between Portugal and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Lusitanians were held 1-1 by the Leopards at the Houston Stadium in Houston, Texas.
It appeared as if Portugal, Captained by Al Nassr forward Cristiano Ronaldo, would cruise through their Central African opponents, after Joao Neves netted for the Lusitanians very early, in the 6th minute, but, DRC levelled in the 5th minute of first half additional time through Newcastle United forward, Yoane Wissa.
The Leopards held on despite intense dominance from Portugal and both sides ended up sharing spoils.
Results:
| FIFA World Cup 2026 (Group Phase) – Wednesday 17 June, 2026 |
| Argentina 3-0 Algeria |
| Austria 3-1 Jordan |
| Portugal 1-1 DR Congo |
| Englans 4-2 Croatia |
Photo: Harry Kane and England teammates celebrate 4-2 victory over Croatia in FIFA World Cup 2026 match on Wednesday 17 June, 2026 Dallas, US
