England vs Croatia - How the players rated

England 1
BOYLE Sports Team · Betting Experts

Harry Kane’s brace helped England to a pulsating 4-2 victory against Croatia as Thomas Tuchel’s side made a breathless start to their quest for World Cup glory.

The back-to-back European Championship finalists are among the favourites for glory in North America and played out a helter-skelter Group L opener at the Dallas Cowboys’ remarkable AT&T Stadium. Here we rate each player's performance.

Who will win World Cup Group L?

Jordan Pickford

Jordan Pickford - 6 (out of 10)

Unable to keep out Martin Baturina’s shot for Croatia’s first equaliser but then made a big save in the second half.

Reece James

Reece James - 6

The right-back looked comfortable in possession and worked well with Noni Madueke before moving into midfield.

Ezri Konsa

Ezri Konsa - 6

Was caught napping for Croatia’s second equaliser but was comfortable in the second half.

John Stones

John Stones - 6

Committed himself early for the opening goal but otherwise showed the composure that makes Thomas Tuchel such a big fan.

Nico O'Reilly

Nico O'Reilly - 6

Was caught out of position on the odd occasion and missed a big chance from a corner.

Who will win the 2026 World Cup?

Elliot Anderson

Elliot Anderson - 7

Was unusually sloppy in possession in the first half but created the third goal.

Declan Rice

Declan Rice - 7

Set up the second goal with a great set-piece delivery and was a constant threat from the dead ball.

Noni Madueke

Noni Madueke - 8

Made a real impact with an explosive performance, winning the penalty and causing danger down the right.

Jude Bellingham

Jude Bellingham - 8

Came into his own in an electric second-half performance that saw him give England the lead for a third time.

Anthony Gordon

Anthony Gordon - 5

Did not get into the game in the manner he would have hoped for and was replaced at the second-half drinks break.

Harry Kane

Harry Kane - 9

Equalled Gary Lineker’s record of 10 World Cup goals with a first-half double, including a retaken penalty, as he showed his class.

Substitutes

Substitutes

Marcus Rashford (on for Gordon, 72): Sealed the game as he finished a brilliant late move - 7

Morgan Rogers (on for Rice, 72): Looked lively when he came on - 7

Bukayo Saka (on for Madueke, 72): Involved in the brilliant fourth goal - 7

Djed Spence (on for Bellingham, 80): Could have scored and defended well - 7

Marc Guehi (on for Stones, 87): N/A

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