Inglaterra's win in Nations League sees Tuchel and Kane chase record

Futbol Inglaterra's Selección secured its third victory in the Nations League at Wembley Stadium, edging Croatia 2‑1, contrasting the side's post‑World Cup momentum with Croatia's effort to recover from a 7‑0 defeat weeks earlier. The win, recorded as ENG 2 CRO 1, kept the Los Tres Leones on a winning run.

Thomas Tuchel, who guided England to a standout performance at the Copa del Mundo 2026, remained on the bench and steered the side to another triumph. His tactical adjustments after the early stages helped England control the tempo.

Morgan Rogers opened the scoring when Jude Bellingham delivered a first‑time cross that the forward met at the second post. The goal gave the Tres Leones a 1‑0 lead and set the tone for the match.

Croatia responded when a corner saw Jarred Quansah miscommunicate with Jordan Pickford, allowing Petar Sucic to slot home and level the score. The equaliser injected tension into a game England had seemed to dominate.

VAR review awarded a penalty after Smolcic was fouled in the box; Harry Kane stepped up and converted from the spot to restore the lead. The penalty came after Quansah, who had caused the earlier mistake, won a free kick inside the area.

England rely on Kane as they chase Spain in Nations League

The strike marked Kane's 126th appearance for England, surpassing Peter Shilton's long‑standing record and making him the nation's most‑capped player. The milestone was highlighted by a pre‑match tribute to the Bayern Munich striker.

James Garner saw a goal ruled out later in the second half, while Croatian veteran Luka Modric entered the fray and received an ovation from the Wembley crowd. Modric's appearance added a ceremonial note to the closing stages.

The victory lifted England to 12 points, securing a place in the quarter‑finals of the UEFA Nations League. The Three Lions now look ahead to a decisive clash with Spain at the Metropolitano Stadium.

Kane's 92nd strike lifts England in Nations League clash at Wembley

Next challenge

England must beat Spain at the Metropolitano to seize the Group C lead from La Roja. A win will keep their momentum alive as they aim for the tournament final.

Earlier in the campaign Croatia had suffered a 7‑0 loss to England, underscoring the contrast between the two fixtures. The match also featured a special homage to Kane for his individual awards and record‑breaking caps tally.