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Harry Kane once again carved his name into football history, though it took some resilience during England’s thrilling World Cup clash with Croatia. The England captain was granted a rare second opportunity from the penalty spot, allowing him to draw level with a national legend in the record books.

Redemption from the penalty for Kane

The drama unfolded within the opening ten minutes when Noni Madueke was brought down by a clumsy challenge from Luka Modric inside the Croatian penalty area. Referee Clement Turpin immediately pointed to the spot, giving England a prime chance to seize early control of the contest.

Kane stepped forward but saw his first attempt — following his trademark stuttered run-up — superbly saved by Dominik Livakovic. As Croatia celebrated clearing the rebound, VAR intervened. Replays confirmed that Livakovic had moved off his line too early while Josko Gvardiol had encroached into the area.

Kane holds his nerve as Baturina equalises

After a tense three-minute delay, Turpin ordered a retake. This time, facing the same keeper, Kane displayed remarkable composure to slot the ball into the very same corner he had targeted earlier.

The goal gave Thomas Tuchel the ideal start to his World Cup campaign, but England’s advantage didn’t last long. Croatia responded with intent, equalising through Martin Baturina, who curled a superb strike past Jordan Pickford from the edge of the box, silencing the travelling England fans.

Tuchel was visibly frustrated with his team’s structure and passing in the first half. The German manager was reportedly heard shouting instructions at goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, reminding him firmly, “Do as I told you.” It was a clear sign of the high standards and intense scrutiny surrounding England’s pursuit of their first major trophy in six decades.

Kane equals Lineker’s record

England refused to lose momentum, and once again, it was Kane who delivered. Proving he is far more than a penalty specialist, the Bayern Munich forward rose majestically to head home a cross, restoring England’s lead before half-time. The goal was not only vital for the match but also historic — it brought Kane level with Gary Lineker’s long-standing record of ten goals, the most by an England player in World Cup history.

However, the joy was short-lived. In the dying seconds of the first half, Croatia hit back once more, with Petar Musa finding the net to make it 2-2 at the break, concluding a pulsating opening period.

Bellingham puts England back in front

England began the second half on the front foot, and Jude Bellingham quickly restored their advantage with a powerful finish to make it 3-2. The Three Lions dominated the early stages of the half, determined to extend their lead against a resilient Croatian side.

How far can England go in this World Cup?