England surge to thrilling opening win in World Cup cracker with Croatia

Thomas Tuchel made it plain that when the stress came with the serious business of World Cup matches, he believed his England team would thrive. What had gone before, especially in the friendlies, was little more than a distraction. Here in the Lone Star state, which tallies with what England have on their shirts, it was time to make a statement about that second star. There was a fair helping of stress against Croatia , the 11th best team in the world and the highest ranked pot two nation in the tournament – particularly in the first half. It was down to defending that was simply too open and generous. A seesaw opening 45 minutes ended 2-2, Harry Kane scoring England’s goals, the first from a retaken penalty. Martin Baturina and Petar Musa replied for Croatia. England were powerful on corners. The overall sense in open play was one of confusion. And yet with the heat on, they responded. Jude Bellingham was in the mood throughout, determined to play without fear and to the point of maximum expression and it was the midfielder that tilted the contest in England’s favour with a storming run and finish. It was a powerhouse display from England in the second half. They created a fistful of chances, albeit at 3-2 it remained a little too edgy for Tuchel’s liking. Croatia knew they might need only one moment and the substitute Marco Pasalic almost provided one towards the end, Jordan Pickford saving England with a smart block. England had too much. …