Aston Villa duo Ezri Konsa and Morgan Rogers helped England begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with an entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia in Dallas.
The Three Lions made a strong start to life in Group L, overcoming a spirited Croatian side in a match packed with quality, goals and attacking intent. England ultimately secured all three points to take an early step towards qualification for the knockout stages.
Konsa was handed a place in Thomas Tuchel’s starting line-up and produced another composed display at the heart of England’s defence. The Aston Villa centre-back completed the full 90 minutes and played an important role as England navigated several difficult moments against a talented Croatian attack.
The appearance marked Konsa’s World Cup debut and his 21st senior cap for England, continuing his impressive rise on the international stage after establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent defenders.
Morgan Rogers also enjoyed a memorable evening, making his World Cup debut after being introduced from the bench in the 72nd minute. The Villa attacker brought fresh energy to England’s forward line and helped the team maintain their attacking threat during the closing stages of the contest.
The appearance was Rogers’ 16th for the Three Lions and represented another significant milestone in what has been a remarkable rise for the young forward over the past two seasons.
Fellow Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins was named among the substitutes but was not called upon during the match.
England’s victory was inspired by captain Harry Kane, who scored twice to help his side secure an important opening win. The result extends England’s positive momentum under Tuchel and puts them in a strong position at the beginning of the tournament.
With confidence high following their successful start, England will now turn their attention to their second Group L fixture against Ghana.
That match is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, June 23, with kick-off set for 9pm BST, as the Three Lions look to continue their perfect start to the World Cup and move closer to qualification.
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