The England national football team's opening match in the FIFA World Cup 2026 was a thrilling 4-2 win against Croatia, with captain Harry Kane scoring twice. Thomas Tuchel's side delivered a powerful statement of intent, despite some worrying defensive frailty. Kane told his teammates to be free in the mind and embrace the pressures of the World Cup, and they took him at his word. The match was a mixture of thrilling attacking football and poor defending, but the smiles on the faces of England's supporters told another story. This was a game that was fun to watch, with England's followers loving the attacking siege in the second half. Tuchel's team selection was a tough one, but selecting Jude Bellingham ahead of Morgan Rogers and preserving Bukayo Saka's fitness by playing Noni Madueke worked. Bellingham was England's powerhouse, with surging runs from midfield, exemplified by his goal when he left Mario Pasalic trailing before beating Croatia keeper Dominik Livakovic. England's win was a great start to the tournament, but they will need to improve their defending if they are to progress further. The selection of Ezri Konsa ahead of Manchester City defender Marc Guehi was contentious, and Tuchel could barely disguise his displeasure as poor defending allowed Croatia back into the game. Whatever Tuchel said at half-time was the catalyst for an outstanding attacking display, with England pinning Croatia back under a wave of attacks. Marcus Rashford wrapped up the win late on, securing a thrilling 4-2 victory for England. The England national football team's fans were carried out of the Dallas Stadium on a carpet of exhilaration, and they will be hoping for more of the same in their next match. England have been a hard watch for much of the recent era, but this match was different. The team's attacking football was a joy to watch, and they will be looking to build on this performance. Tuchel's side will need to improve their defending, but they have made a great start to the tournament. The England national football team's next match will be eagerly anticipated, and they will be looking to secure another win. With players like Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Marcus Rashford, they have the talent to go far in the tournament.