Harry Kane gave England a perfect start to the World Cup. The Bayern Munich forward scored two goals in the 4-2 victory over Croatia, setting a special record in the process.
Harry Kane once again demonstrated his class in the English national team’s World Cup opener. The Bayern star led the Three Lions to a 4-2 victory over Croatia with a brace, making him the decisive player on the field.
Kane put England ahead on a penalty kick as early as the 12th minute. After Croatia’s goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic saved his first attempt, the penalty had to be retaken. This time, the 32-year-old confidently converted it to make it 1-0.
After Martin Baturina temporarily equalized, Kane struck again. Shortly before halftime, the Bayern Munich striker powerfully headed a corner kick into the net to make it 2–1, scoring his ninth and tenth World Cup goals. With that, he tied England’s previous World Cup record-holder, Gary Lineker.
Kane shines, Stanisic plays the full game
After Croatia equalized again shortly before halftime, Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford secured a well-deserved English victory after the break.
Kane wasn’t just there as a goal-scorer. As usual, the Bayern star repeatedly dropped back into midfield, organized his team’s play, and was involved in numerous attacking moves.
For Croatia, Bayern Munich’s Josip Stanisic played the full 90 minutes. The defender fought hard but was unable to prevent his team’s defeat against the favored English side.
For Kane, the evening was a double success. In addition to his two goals, the forward made his 115th international appearance for England, tying him with David Beckham for third place on the all-time list.
With the victory over Croatia, England has an excellent chance of advancing to the knockout stage. And right at the start of the tournament, Harry Kane showed why he is one of the Three Lions’ biggest hopes for the title.