FIFA World Cup: England beat Croatia, Portugal held by DR Congo

England made a winning start to their World Cup campaign with a thrilling victory over Croatia, while Portugal were left frustrated after being held to a surprise draw by DR Congo. The contrasting results provided plenty of drama as both European sides began their quest for World Cup glory

England 4-2 Croatia
Harry Kane scored twice as England opened their campaign with an entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia in Texas. Kane twice put England ahead in the first half, but goals from Martin Baturina and Petar Musa ensured Croatia went into halftime level at 2-2. Jude Bellingham restored England’s advantage moments after the restart before substitute Marcus Rashford sealed the win late on. The result gave Thomas Tuchel a winning start to England’s World Cup campaign and boosted hopes of a deep run in the tournament.

Portugal 1-1 DR Congo
Cristiano Ronaldo endured a frustrating start to his record-equalling sixth World Cup as Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by Democratic Republic of the Congo in Group K. Joao Neves gave Portugal an early lead with a header, but Newcastle striker Yoane Wissa equalised. Ronaldo struggled to influence the match and missed two good second-half opportunities, while the African side impressed throughout to earn a historic first point at the tournament. The result leaves Group K finely balanced heading into the next round of fixtures.