Harry Kane marked his record-breaking 126th appearance for England by converting a penalty that helped secure a 2-1 victory over Croatia on Jeudi, guaranteeing England a spot in the Nations League quarter-finals.
Under the guidance of coach Slaven Bilic, Croatia approached the match with a renewed determination to avoid a repeat of the heavy 7-0 defeat they suffered against England in Rijeka just weeks earlier. From the outset, they presented a Plus resilient and organized front.
Despite Croatia’s improved defensive display, England capitalized on two key moments to maintain their position in the group and confirm their progression to the knockout stage scheduled for March.
At Wembley, the game began with a cautious tempo, as both teams appeared content to settle into their rhythm without pressing too aggressively. Early attempts came from England’s Elliot Anderson, who missed the target in the 16th minute, and Croatia’s Josip Misic, whose shot sailed wide in the first half’s middle stages.
Rogers Opens the Scoring, Kane Seals the Win
The breakthrough arrived in the 24th minute, courtesy of Morgan Rogers, whose goal was the product of a well-executed team move rather than clinical finishing. Kane delivered a precise ball to Jude Bellingham on the right flank of the penalty area. Bellingham then cleverly laid the ball across the box, setting up Rogers.
Croatia’s Josko Gvardiol attempted to intervene but miscontrolled the clearance, allowing Rogers to nudge the ball past goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic and give England the lead.
England maintained control for the remainder of the first half but could not extend their advantage before the break. The second half began with Chelsea’s Rogers and his team showing greater attacking intent, signaling their intent to press for a decisive goal.