England v Croatia: World Cup 2026 - live
The Guardian • • sports
Key Points:
- England and Croatia played a thrilling 2-2 draw in their World Cup match held at the Dallas Cowboys' stadium in Arlington, Texas, with goals from Harry Kane (two for England) and Croatia's Musa and Baturina.
- Kane scored a crucial penalty and a header, matching Gary Lineker's record of ten World Cup finals goals, while Croatia equalized twice, including a stunning long-range strike by Baturina.
- The match featured a controversial penalty retake for England due to goalkeeper Livakovic and defender Gvardiol encroachment, which Kane converted on the second attempt.
- England fielded a young and vibrant team under manager Thomas Tuchel, with Jude Bellingham starting at number 10 and Anthony Gordon and Noni Madueke on the flanks, while Croatia relied on experienced players including captain Luka Modric, making his fifth World Cup appearance.
- The game was played in hot conditions exceeding 33 degrees Celsius inside an air-conditioned stadium, with a lively atmosphere from both sets of fans and tactical adjustments from both teams throughout the match.
