England delivered a dominant Nations League performance on Saturday, defeating Croatia 7-0 in Rijeka. Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka each scored twice, while Jude Bellingham scored once and provided three assists in the rout. Anthony Gordon and Morgan Rogers also found the net for the visitors, who moved to six points in League A, Group Three.
The result marked England’s largest-ever victory over Croatia, surpassing their previous record of 5-1 in a 2009 World Cup qualifier. Spain remained top of the group with nine points after defeating the Czech Republic 3-1 in Oviedo. Croatia, meanwhile, fell to three points in the standings, while the Czech Republic remained pointless.
England’s dominant display began early, with Kane opening the scoring in the eighth minute after Bellingham released him between two defenders. Bellingham doubled the lead in the 21st minute, following a cross from Gordon. Saka added England’s third just before halftime, before Kane and Saka each completed their braces after the break. Rogers, a second-half substitute, capped the scoring in the 70th minute.
England’s attacking trio led the charge, with Kane extending his international tally to 89 goals in 124 appearances, moving within one cap of Peter Shilton’s England record. Bellingham’s performance drew particular praise, with reports highlighting his three assists and all-around control in midfield. Tuchel’s side controlled possession for large stretches, creating numerous chances and maintaining a relentless attacking tempo.
Croatia struggled to contain England’s pace and movement, with defensive errors compounding their difficulties. Luka Modrić, playing in his 41st year, featured prominently but was unable to prevent his team’s heavy defeat. Croatia’s coach, Slaven Bilić, faced another tough match following his side’s 4-1 loss to Spain on Tuesday.
Spain’s victory over the Czech Republic kept them three points clear at the top of the group. Álvaro Morata scored twice for the hosts, who extended their unbeaten streak to 40 matches. The result left England level with Spain on six points, though Spain held a game in hand.
Key Match Details
- Venue: Rujevica Stadium, Rijeka
- Attendance: Over 6,000 spectators, primarily children and parents, defying UEFA’s behind-closed-doors ruling due to alleged far-right behavior by Croatian fans
- England’s record: 6 points from 3 matches (2 wins, 1 loss)
- Croatia’s record: 3 points from 3 matches (1 win, 2 losses)
- Czech Republic’s record: 0 points from 3 matches
England’s next Nations League fixture is against the Czech Republic on Tuesday, with Kane poised to equal Shilton’s cap record if selected. The teams will meet again at Wembley on November 12.