World Cup 2026: Why was Harry Kane’s penalty retaken against Croatia?

Harry Kane managed to put England ahead against Croatia from the penalty spot – but only thanks to the video assistant referee.

The spot-kick was awarded in the ninth minute after Luka Modric fouled Noni Madueke.

England captain Kane had his early effort saved by Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic.

VAR stepped in to give Kane a second chance after Livakovic was off his line.

While the goalkeeper should have had one foot on or above the line when the shot was taken, footage showed Livakovic moving too early.

However, even if the goalkeeper had stayed on his own line, the penalty would have been retaken.

After Livakovic’s save, the loose ball fell to Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol on behalf of Croatia.

But he had also moved too quickly and was inside the area when Kane scored his first try.

This is not an automatic replay as the defender must influence the opposing attacker.

Madueke was behind Gvardiol, so he cleared the ball, preventing the Arsenal winger from shooting from the rebound.

Kane was duly dispatched at the second try.