England Triumphs Over Croatia in World Cup Rematch

In Arlington, Texas, Harry Kane delivered an impressive performance by scoring twice to match the English record for World Cup goals. Jude Bellingham added another goal just two minutes into the second half, helping England secure a 4-2 victory over Croatia on Wednesday.

Martin Baturina and Petar Musa each responded to Kane’s first-half goals in a game reminiscent of the 2018 semifinal, where Croatia emerged victorious. Musa’s goal marked the final play of the first half, leveling the score before the break.

However, the tie did not hold for long once the match resumed. Bellingham effectively controlled a long pass, bypassing a defender and delivering a precise shot past goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic, with the ball striking the far post before going in. Marcus Rashford extended England’s lead in the 85th minute.

Kane, who claimed the Golden Boot during the 2018 World Cup in Russia with six goals, has now accumulated ten World Cup goals. This achievement ties him with Gary Lineker, who set his record during the 1986 and 1990 tournaments. Following the team’s win over Croatia in Arlington, Texas, Kane was recognized for reaching this milestone.

The 32-year-old striker’s first goal materialized on his second attempt at a penalty kick. Livakovic had initially saved the first shot, but video review revealed both of the goalkeeper’s feet were off the line at the moment of the kick. Kane placed the second shot towards the right post as Livakovic jumped the wrong way.

The penalty resulted from Luka Modric, the seasoned 40-year-old midfielder participating in his fifth World Cup, when he fouled Noni Madueke. Kane equaled Lineker’s record with a powerful header off a corner kick by Declan Rice. Kane now boasts 81 international goals.

Following his seventh international goal, Bellingham quickly seized another scoring opportunity. Livakovic, however, thwarted this attempt along with several others amid an intense English offensive.

Petar Musa plays for Major League Soccer’s FC Dallas, which stages its home matches approximately 40 miles from AT&T Stadium. This retractable-roof venue, home to the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys, offered fans a welcome escape from the Texas heat. Spectators included white-clad English fans and Croatian supporters in their trademark red-and-white checkered attire, contrasting with the blue uniforms worn by the players.

Musa capitalized on a header from Ivan Perisic, executing a one-timer that beat goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. Earlier, Baturina had already found the net in the 36th minute, with his shot narrowly eluding Pickford’s grasp.

Looking ahead, England will face Ghana in Foxborough, Massachusetts, on Tuesday as part of Group L. Meanwhile, Croatia is set to play against Panama in Toronto on the same day.