Tuchel praises Kane and Bellingham after England’s 4-2 win over Croatia
6 verified4 unconfirmed
England opened their World Cup campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia in Dallas, with Harry Kane scoring twice and Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford adding second-half goals. Manager Thomas Tuchel delivered a half-time message that players credited with sparking the team's improved performance after trailing 2-2 at the break. Tuchel praised Kane for his leadership and defensive commitment, and Bellingham for his teamwork and ability in pressure games. The match was Tuchel's first as a World Cup manager.
What’s verified
England defeated Croatia 4-2 in their World Cup opener in Dallas.
Harry Kane scored two goals; Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford each scored one.
The score was 2-2 at half-time before England pulled ahead in the second half.
Manager Thomas Tuchel delivered a half-time message that players said motivated the team to play more aggressively.
Tuchel praised Kane as an "absolute leader" and noted his defensive contributions.
Tuchel also praised Bellingham as a "team player" who thrives in high-pressure moments.
Not yet confirmed
One source reported that Tuchel said a wall of photographers blocked his view of his team during the national anthem and asked FIFA to change the policy. This detail was not included in the other source.
One source noted that Kane's two goals moved him level with Gary Lineker as England's record World Cup goalscorer with 10 strikes. The other source did not mention this milestone.
One source described a competition for the attacking midfield role between Bellingham and Morgan Rogers, with Tuchel acknowledging it was hard to leave Rogers out. The other source did not include this.
One source included Tuchel's encouragement for Rashford to remain hungry after his goal and noted Rashford's previous goal drought for England. The other source did not mention this.
Key figures
Thomas Tuchel (England manager), Harry Kane (England captain), Jude Bellingham (England midfielder), Marcus Rashford (England forward), Anthony Barry (Tuchel's assistant), Morgan Rogers (England player), Josko Gvardiol (Croatia player)
Sources: BBC News, Sky Sports
