England player ratings: How Harry Kane and co rated against Croatia
Jordan Pickford: He made some unruly moves in the first half and may feel he should have put in a better performance for Croatia’s first goal. 5
Nico O’Reilly: It’s the first start in a major tournament for the 19-year-old. I was a little annoyed, but I put on a solid performance. We had two good opportunities to score from corners in the second half. 6
John Stones: Manchester City’s centre-back took on great responsibility in keeping possession of the ball. Some point out that he and Ezri Konza need more time together as a partnership in a major tournament. 5
Ezri Konsa: The Aston Villa defender has been one of Thomas Tuchel’s favorites since taking over. He and Stones’ time together on the court was limited, and sometimes it showed. 5
Reece James: He came into the game, but Chelsea’s right-back had a quieter performance. He is part of New England’s back four, which conceded two goals. 6
Declan Rice: The Arsenal midfielder showed his usual strong run and was a key part of England’s backbone. Rice’s set-piece delivery was superb, assisting Kane’s second and setting up two excellent chances for O’Reilly. 7
Elliot Anderson: He has shown impressive maturity in the way he has been playing since making his England debut. His pass behind the Croatian defense helped Jude Bellingham score. 6
Anthony Gordon: He showed energy but lacked advanced technology in this match. His pressure played a key role in Croatia’s withdrawal. A loose pass that could have put Madueke in the goal. 6
Jude Bellingham: Confident in the number 10 role, he made a promising early run and then put England 3-2 ahead. A good start from the Real Madrid midfielder. 7
Noni Madueke: Lots of energy and reading of the game earned England a penalty. His pace at the back meant he was England’s most dangerous attacker. 7
Harry Kane: He was lucky to get a penalty again in the first half and scored England’s second goal from a set piece with a superb header. We dug deep to release Madueke and it looks like a thriving partnership. 8
