Kane nets brace as England launch World Cup bid with 4-2 win over Croatia

Harry Kane ignited England's World Cup campaign with two first-half goals, ultimately leading his team to a 4-2 victory over Croatia in their opening Group L match. The Tottenham striker converted a penalty and added another goal, but Croatia fought back twice to level the score before halftime.

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Harry Kane scored twice in the first half as England eventually saw off Croatia 4-2 to launch their World Cup title assault in Texas on Wednesday.

Jude Bellingham proved to be the difference-maker, scoring just two minutes into the second half to put England back in front. The match, a repeat of the 2018 semi-final which Croatia won, saw England's squad, one of the older at the tournament, hold an edge over their opponents.

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Jude Bellingham, immediately after half-time, and substitute Marcus Rashford with five minutes to go ensured a winning start for Thomas Tuchel’s side after Croatia had fought back to level at 2-2.

Despite a nervy start at the Dallas Stadium, England took the lead when Kane's penalty was ordered retaken after the goalkeeper encroached. Kane calmly slotted home the second attempt. Croatia equalized through Martin Baturina, only for Kane to restore England's lead. Petar Musa then leveled for Croatia, setting the stage for a tense second half.

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The prolific Kane twice put England ahead in the first half, one a retaken penalty, only for Martin Baturina and Petar Musa to hit back for 2018 runners-up Croatia.

With both defenses showing vulnerability, the second half promised more goals. Bellingham's strike put England ahead again, and Marcus Rashford sealed the win with a late goal, ensuring a winning start for Thomas Tuchel's side. The victory marks a significant step for England in their quest for a first major trophy since 1966.

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With both sides shaky at the back, the second half threatened another goal glut, Bellingham needing just two minutes to put England ahead again in front of a crowd of 70,000.