The atmosphere in the stands resembled that of a lively pop concert, but England displayed a dominant performance that felt like taking candy from a child. Approximately 6,200 under-14 Croatian fans were granted free entry to Stadion HNK Rijeka, transforming the match into an invaluable experience for young football enthusiasts. England decisively overwhelmed Croatia, solidifying their position in second place in their Nations League group and enhancing their chances of advancing to next year’s quarter-finals. For those rooting for the home team, there was some solace in witnessing the impressive synergy between Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham.
However, the match might have required an adult rating due to the one-sided nature of the contest. The local supporters faced a grim spectacle, while England’s coach Thomas Tuchel reveled in what he deemed their most comprehensive performance since their 4-2 victory over Croatia at the World Cup. Kane celebrated his 124th cap with two goals, bringing his international tally to 89, and was significantly supported by Bellingham, who contributed three assists and a goal. Tuchel was pleased to see other attackers in his potent front four also find the net.
Everything fell into place for England, who could have easily scored ten goals against their opponents, ranked 12th in the world, but settled for seven. Both Anthony Gordon and Bukayo Saka excelled on the wings, while Alex Scott made a memorable full debut. The 22-year-old showcased his determination and skill, making a strong case for his inclusion in future squads, especially considering Tuchel’s decision not to select him for the World Cup.
Scott’s remarkable pass to set up Gordon highlighted his potential and future with the national team. It was only the second cap for the Bournemouth player, and Tuchel’s faith in Scott was evident as he matched him up against Croatia’s seasoned midfielder Luka Modric, despite Modric’s declining prowess.
The atmosphere was not as surreal as during their last visit in 2018, when the match was played without fans. Although UEFA had initially intended for the game to be behind closed doors due to previous incidents of racist behavior by Croatian fans, local children were permitted to attend, adding an energetic backdrop to the match. The youthful audience served as a reminder that many were not even born when Modric first faced England two decades ago.
Tuchel recognized the advantage of youth in his squad. Modric, now 41, was accompanied by fellow veteran Mateo Kovacic, making it unsurprising that Scott and Elliot Anderson, who had previously shone together during England’s Under-21 European Championship triumph, dominated the midfield.
Anderson, Scott, and Bellingham delivered exceptional performances. Bellingham, returning after being rested for the previous match against Czechia, continued to showcase his stamina, assisting Morgan Rogers to secure the seventh goal in the closing moments.
Reflecting on their previous encounter at the World Cup, when England faced challenges in defense, they emerged victorious after a strong attacking display under Tuchel’s guidance. However, replicating that form had proven difficult until now. There was a notable moment when Bellingham physically outmuscled Modric, underscoring England’s superior speed and strength. By the time Bellingham scored to make it 2-0 in the 21st minute, Croatia was clearly on the back foot.
Croatia’s coach Slaven Bilic, returning for a second stint, found himself unable to counter England’s relentless attack. The opening goal came within the first eight minutes, with Marc Guéhi intercepting a loose pass. Bellingham quickly assessed the situation, threading the ball through to Kane, who finished expertly past the Croatian goalkeeper, Dominik Livakovic. Despite the locals booing Kane’s celebration, they were witnessing a remarkable display.
Gordon, consistently linking well with Lewis Hall, proved to be a potent threat on the left flank. He has now contributed a goal or assist in each of his last seven appearances for England. The score reached 3-0 when Jarell Quansah, who replaced Trent Alexander-Arnold, redeemed himself from prior criticism by delivering an excellent cross that Gordon converted with his head.
Quansah was among five players rotated by Tuchel, who also reinstated Jordan Pickford in goal. The goalkeeper remained crucial, making a significant save early in the match. After Gordon’s goal, England briefly lost focus, allowing Kovacic a chance that he squandered. However, they quickly regrouped, with Kane initiating a counterattack that culminated in Bellingham setting up Saka to score just before halftime.
The small contingent of England fans enjoyed the spectacle, and the second half continued in the same vein. Anderson charged down the right wing to assist Kane’s next goal. Croatia, experiencing their largest defeat ever, eventually substituted Modric as England’s stars shone brightly. Kane, who assisted Saka’s sixth goal, is on the cusp of equaling Peter Shilton’s record for most appearances for England when they face Czechia next Tuesday. The 33-year-old forward shows no signs of slowing down.
