England kicked off their World Cup campaign in dramatic fashion, beating Croatia 4-2 in an entertaining Group L clash, with Reece James playing a key role throughout the full 90 minutes.
Thomas Tuchel’s side had to work hard for all three points in a game packed with twists, quality finishes, and plenty of attacking football. James started at right-back before moving into midfield late on as England saw out the victory.
Newly called-up Trevoh Chalobah was not included in the matchday squad after joining the camp at the last minute following Tino Livramento’s injury.
Croatia looked sharper in the opening exchanges, but it was England who struck first in the 12th minute. Noni Madueke won a penalty after being brought down by Luka Modric inside the area.
Harry Kane’s first attempt was saved by Dominik Livakovic, but VAR spotted encroachment from Croatia defender Josko Gvardiol, while the goalkeeper had also moved off his line too early. That meant the spot-kick was retaken, and Kane made no mistake the second time around.
Reece James was lively on the right flank, almost getting on the end of a clever Jude Bellingham pass before delivering a couple of dangerous crosses that nearly created more chances for England.
But Croatia hit back in the 35th minute through Martin Baturina, who curled a stunning effort into the top corner after England gave the ball away in midfield.
England responded quickly. Kane rose highest to power home a header from Declan Rice’s corner, restoring the Three Lions’ lead and grabbing his second goal of the game.
However, Croatia refused to go away. Right at the end of the first half, Petar Musa produced a composed volley after a slick move involving former Chelsea midfielder Mario Pasalic, sending the teams into the break level at 2-2.
England came out with far more purpose after halftime and regained the lead almost immediately. James started the move, feeding Elliot Anderson, whose clever touch released Bellingham. The midfielder drove forward and calmly slotted his finish in off the post to make it 3-2.
Bellingham and Nico O’Reilly both had chances to extend England’s lead as Tuchel’s side looked far more settled and dangerous in the second half.
Livakovic kept Croatia in the game with a remarkable triple save on 55 minutes after another dangerous Rice corner caused chaos in the box.
As the game wore on, Tuchel made several changes, with Djed Spence replacing Rice and James moving into central midfield alongside Anderson.
The substitutions paid off late on. With five minutes remaining, Spence created space before Bukayo Saka picked out Marcus Rashford, who cut inside and fired a brilliant low finish into the corner to seal the win.
It was a strong start for England, who now turn their attention to Ghana in Boston for their second group match on Tuesday, June 23.
