LOS ANGELES: England opened their World Cup campaign with a thrilling 4–2 win over Croatia, while Portugal were held to a surprising 1–1 draw by the Democratic Republic of Congo, as Cristiano Ronaldo equalled a historic record but struggled to influence the game.
The opening round of Group L delivered drama across continents, with England showing attacking strength and Portugal exposed by an organised underdog performance.
England 4–2 Croatia: Kane Leads the Charge
England began their tournament on a high with captain Harry Kane scoring twice in a fast-paced encounter against Croatia.
The match, played at the Dallas Cowboys’ stadium in Texas, saw England take control early but also face defensive lapses that kept Croatia in the contest for long periods.
Kane opened the scoring from the penalty spot after a retake was awarded when Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livaković was judged to have moved off his line. The England striker made no mistake on his second attempt.
Croatia responded strongly. Midfielder Martin Baturina levelled the score after 36 minutes, punishing England’s defensive gaps.
But Kane struck again before halftime, heading home to match England legend Gary Lineker’s World Cup record of 10 goals.
Croatia once again punished England’s defensive weakness when Petar Musa scored a second equaliser in first-half stoppage time, sending the teams into the break at 2–2.
England Step Up After Half-Time
The second half saw a more controlled England performance under coach Thomas Tuchel, who urged his team to increase intensity during the break.
England midfielder Jude Bellingham restored control with a brilliant solo goal, driving past defenders before finishing calmly.
Later in the game, substitute Marcus Rashford sealed the win in the 85th minute, taking his time inside the box before finishing clinically.
England’s attacking trio ultimately proved decisive, but defensive concerns remain after conceding twice in the first half.
Kane later praised the team’s reaction after the break, saying England “went full gas” and regained control of the match.
The result gives England a strong start in Group L as they aim to end their long wait for a major international trophy.
Portugal Stunned by DR Congo in 1–1 Draw
Earlier in the day, Portugal’s campaign got off to a disappointing start after being held 1–1 by the Democratic Republic of Congo in Houston.
Veteran forward Cristiano Ronaldo equalled the record of six World Cup appearances, matching Argentine star Lionel Messi, but was unable to inspire his side to victory.
Portugal took the lead through João Neves in the first half and looked in control early on.
However, DR Congo responded just before the interval when Yoane Wissa headed home an equaliser, marking a historic moment for his nation.
The result secured DR Congo’s first-ever World Cup point, a milestone celebrated widely by their squad and supporters.
Portugal Struggle Despite Star Power
Portugal struggled to break down a disciplined DR Congo defence, with Ronaldo closely marked and largely contained throughout the match.
Questions were raised over Portugal coach Roberto Martínez’s decision to start the 41-year-old forward despite limited impact.
Martínez defended his choice after the match, arguing that removing a leading goal scorer in a tight game would have been illogical.
Ronaldo did not speak to the media after the match but later posted a message on social media, saying the tournament was “a long road” and still early in the competition.
Several Portugal players also wore black armbands in tribute to former teammate Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident last year.
DR Congo Make World Cup History
Despite limited preparation due to disruptions in their country, DR Congo delivered one of the standout performances of the day.
Coach Sébastien Desabre praised his players for their discipline and resilience, highlighting the importance of the result for Congolese football history.
The draw was celebrated as a breakthrough moment, with DR Congo earning both their first World Cup goal and their first point in the competition.
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Ghana Strike Late to Beat Panama
In another Group L match, Ghana secured a dramatic 1–0 win over Panama in Toronto.
The match appeared to be heading for a goalless draw until Caleb Yirenkyi scored in the fifth minute of stoppage time.
The result puts Ghana level on points with England in the group standings.
Ghana, who reached the World Cup quarter-finals in 2010, are aiming to improve on disappointing group-stage exits in 2014 and 2022.
Colombia Beat Uzbekistan in Group K
In Group K action, Colombia defeated World Cup debutants Uzbekistan 3–1 at the Estadio Azteca.
Colombia took the lead through Daniel Muñoz after a brilliant assist from Luis Díaz.
Uzbekistan equalised through Abbosbek Fayzullaev, briefly raising hopes of an upset.
However, Díaz restored Colombia’s lead in the second half before Jaminton Campaz added a late third goal to secure victory.
Early Tournament Signals
The opening round of matches highlighted a clear theme: attacking power from favourites and strong resistance from underdog teams.
England’s depth proved decisive, while Portugal’s struggles showed that experience alone may not guarantee dominance in this tournament.
DR Congo’s historic point and Ghana’s late winner added further unpredictability to the early standings.
Conclusion
Matchday action delivered a mix of high-scoring drama, late winners, and surprising setbacks for major teams. England emerged as early group leaders after a statement win, while Portugal face early pressure following a frustrating draw.
As the tournament progresses, Group L and Group K remain wide open, with momentum already shifting after just one round of matches.
