England crush Croatia 4-2 in Tuchel’s World Cup statement

England kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a statement 4-2 victory over Croatia at Wembley Stadium on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. Thomas Tuchel’s side dominated possession and created chances at will, exposing Croatia’s defensive frailties early and often. The result vaulted England to the top of their qualification group and sent a clear warning to rivals ahead of the tournament.

The hosts struck first inside seven minutes when Phil Foden rifled home after a quick break down the left flank, capitalising on a misplaced pass from Marcelo Brozović. Croatia responded through Andrej Kramarić, who lashed a first-time finish past Jordan Pickford in the 22nd minute, but England restored their lead on the half-hour when Bukayo Saka finished clinically from a cut-back cross by Luke Shaw. A 35th-minute header from Harry Maguire doubled England’s advantage before the break.