World Cup 2026: Thomas Tuchel’s England vs Croatia was fun to watch.

Whether they like England if they defend well against better opposition is another matter.

The thought of world-class forwards facing the kind of slide defense we saw in Dallas, especially in the first half, will be heartbreaking for Tuchel, who will recognize that it simply isn’t good enough.

Ezri Konsa’s selection ahead of Manchester City defender Mark Guhi was controversial. It is an ongoing debate as the Aston Villa defender has not made a compelling case for continued inclusion.

Tuchel was able to escape his frustration as England took the lead twice through captain Kane to equal Gary Lineker’s World Cup record of 10 goals for his country, only poor defending allowed the dangerous Croatia to get back into the game.

Whatever Tuchel said, it was unlikely to be a happy one, as Judd Bellingham’s impressive attacking display restored England’s lead moments after the break.

Croatia then hit back with a flurry of attacks, most notably for one midway through the half, which they somehow survived until Marcus Rashford rounded off the win late on.

Tuchel’s team selection was difficult given the resources at his disposal, but picking Bellingham ahead of Morgan Rodgers – which he admitted was the tightest call – and playing Noni Maduke worked to keep Bukayo Saka fit.

Bellingham’s goal was a force to be reckoned with for England as he broke through the middle of the midfield to break past Mario Pasalic before beating Croatian goalkeeper Dominic Livakovic.

It was a moment when the game changed as England – who came out late in the second half and were clearly sparked by a few words from Tuchel – immediately regained their advantage and momentum and played quickly.