Harry Kane Creates History, Bellingham Sets New Record as England Crush Croatia 4-2

England launched their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with an entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia at Dallas Stadium, but the night belonged to captain Harry Kane, who rewrote the record books with a landmark performance. While Kane reached multiple World Cup milestones, Jude Bellingham also etched his name into European football history as Thomas Tuchel's side announced themselves as serious contenders with an impressive opening display.

Kane Joins Beckham and Equals Lineker

England's captain once again delivered on the biggest stage, scoring twice as the Three Lions overcame a spirited Croatian challenge.

Kane opened the scoring from the penalty spot after Noni Madueke was fouled by Luka Modric inside the area. Although Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic initially saved the effort, VAR ruled that he had moved off his line early, forcing a retake. Kane made no mistake with the second attempt.

After Croatia levelled through Martin Baturina, Kane restored England's advantage before half-time with a powerful header, taking his tally to 10 FIFA World Cup goals.

The Bayern Munich striker became only the second England player to score in three different World Cups — following David Beckham, who found the net at the 1998, 2002 and 2006 tournaments. Kane has now scored at the 2018, 2022 and 2026 editions.

His 10 World Cup goals also drew him level with Gary Lineker as England's joint-highest scorer in the tournament's history. Kane added another record by becoming the player with the most non-penalty shootout penalties scored in FIFA World Cup history, with five.

Following the victory, Kane shared his thoughts on social media.

"Off to a winning start. Second half set the standard for us, credit to all the boys for a huge shift. Thank you for your support," Kane wrote.

Croatia Fight Back but England Find Another Gear

Despite England's strong start, Croatia repeatedly showed why they remain one of international football's toughest opponents.

After Kane's opening goal, Martin Baturina brought Croatia level in the 36th minute. Luka Sucic's driving run opened up the England defence before he cut the ball back for Baturina, who fired past Jordan Pickford.

Kane's second goal restored England's lead, but Croatia responded once again through Petar Musa to make it 2-2 before the break.

The second half, however, belonged to England. Jude Bellingham produced a brilliant strike to put his side back in front before substitute Marcus Rashford sealed the result with a late goal, completing what has been one of the most entertaining matches of the tournament so far.

Bellingham Sets New European Benchmark

While Kane grabbed the headlines, Jude Bellingham achieved a remarkable milestone of his own.

At 22 years and 353 days old, the midfielder became the youngest European player ever to appear in four major men's international tournaments. Named in the starting lineup by Thomas Tuchel, Bellingham reached the landmark before even turning 23.

In doing so, he surpassed a record that Germany's Jamal Musiala had set only four days earlier. Bellingham also became the first European player to reach four major tournament appearances before his 23rd birthday.

The appearance against Croatia took his tally to 16 matches at major tournaments for England, giving him more appearances than several legendary figures including Frank Lampard, Tony Adams and Bryan Robson at the same age.

He now holds the record for the most major tournament appearances by a European player before turning 23, moving ahead of contemporaries such as Bukayo Saka, Josko Gvardiol and Pedri.

Historic Night Beyond England

The match also produced another notable World Cup milestone for Croatia.

Veteran winger Ivan Perisic became only the second player in FIFA World Cup history to register an assist at four different tournaments. The Croatian joined Argentine great Lionel Messi as the only players to achieve the feat.

For England, however, the night ultimately belonged to Kane and a new generation led by Bellingham. With records tumbling and a statement victory secured, the Three Lions could hardly have asked for a more convincing start to their World Cup journey.

(With inputs from ANI)