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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Jamie Braidwood

The surprise England starter who impressed alongside Kane and Bellingham in 4-2 win over Croatia

England Croatia Bukayo Saka Jude Bellingham Anthony Gordon Harry Kane John Stones Jordan Pickford Marcus Rashford Noni Madueke
  • England beat Croatia 4-2 in their first game at the 2026 World Cup , and The Independent’s Jamie Braidwood has rated every Three Lions player.
  • Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham both received 8/10s, with the England captain scoring twice in the first half, while Jude Bellingham netted England’s third goal.
  • Noni Madueke won a penalty as he starred after surprisingly getting the nod over Bukayo Saka, while Marcus Rashford scored England’s fourth goal which was set up by Saka, and all three players received a 7/10.
  • There were some players who were not at their best, with Jordan Pickford and John Stones getting a 5/10 following a shaky defensive performance, while Anthony Gordon got the same mark after struggling to make an attacking impact.
  • Full England ratings: Pickford 5, James 6, Konsa, 6, Stones 5, O’Reilly 6, Anderson 6, Rice 6, Bellingham 8, Madueke 7, Gordon 5, Kane 8. Substitutes: Rashford 7, Saka 7, Rogers 6, Spence 7, Guehi N/A

IN FULL

England player ratings vs Croatia: Who impressed in World Cup opener?

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