England almost guaranteed World Cup knockout place after Bellingham helps beat Croatia

England’s 4-2 victory over Croatia in Dallas all but guarantees their progression to the knockout rounds of the 2026 World Cup. The match was defined by dramatic swings, as Harry Kane scored twice—once from a retaken penalty and again from an out-swinging corner—before Croatia equalized through Martin Baturina and Petar Musa, a striker for FC Dallas. England regained the lead in the second half, with Jude Bellingham delivering a precise angled finish after Elliot Anderson’s cross, followed by Marcus Rashford’s late goal. The win positions England top of Group L, with a greater than 99% chance of advancing according to *The Athletic*’s projection model. The expanded 48-team tournament means the top two teams from each group, plus the eight best third-placed sides, will progress. If England win their remaining group games, they will face a third-place team from Groups E, H, I, J, or K in Atlanta on July 1. England’s performance showed signs of attacking quality, though defensive concerns remained. Assistant coach Anthony Barry noted early “nervous energy” and “fearful patterns” in the first half, but Bellingham’s goal shifted momentum. His seventh international goal and a late tackle on the touchline underscored his influence, mirroring the impact of key players like Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi in recent matches. The victory follows a mixed start to the tournament, where other contenders like Brazil and Spain struggled. England’s upcoming matches against Ghana and Panama will test their consistency, but their current form offers optimism for the knockout stages. Head coach Thomas Tuchel’s team now faces the challenge of maintaining focus without complacency, as early success in major tournaments often demands sustained performance.