Three Lions fans roared with delight after edging a six-goal thriller against Croatia. Barney Davis, Night News Editor, reported on June 17, 2026, at 11:02pm, updated at 11:08pm. England fans were put through the emotional wringer but ultimately were jubilant after edging Croatia in their opening group match.
It truly was a game of two halves as the Three Lions came roaring after a dismal first period to take a 4-2 lead. Marcus Rashford’s cool finish for a sensational team goal secured three points and put England firmly in the driving seat at the top of Group L. Fans ripped off their shirts and got on each other’s shoulders at the 85th minute as nerves were finally settled. Pints were thrown in the air in viewing areas across the country as they wisely avoided paying £3,000 for a ticket and stayed home to watch a live stream.
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Start your day informed with Metro's News Updates newsletter or get Breaking News alerts the moment it happens. Fans roared as they saw England captain Harry Kane throw himself in front of the ball for a last-minute block as much as any of their team’s four goals. Kane matched Gary Lineker’s World Cup record haul of ten goals with his first-half double.
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