England opened the 2026 World Cup with a 4-2 win over Croatia, playing a brand of football that looks like a departure from previous tournament editions. Thomas Tuchel, who took charge after Gareth Southgate left following Euro 2024, has installed a more aggressive and expansive style. Four goals in a group game is not a standard England performance at a World Cup.

Croatia had knocked England out of Euro 2020 on penalties and reached the 2018 World Cup final. They arrived knowing how to hurt teams at the highest level. England’s ability to go through them rather than around them was the notable factor on the night.

The four goals came from different players, which matters. England sides of recent tournaments have leaned too heavily on individual moments. This looks more collective. Croatia’s two goals were a reminder that Tuchel’s defensive structure is not yet airtight, but the attacking output more than compensated.

England went into the tournament ranked among the top five favourites alongside Argentina, France, Brazil, and Spain. The Croatia result has done nothing to change that. Power rankings across major sports outlets now list England in the top three after matchday one.

The question is how Tuchel manages the squad across the group stage. He has depth and a side that has been building toward this moment for two years. Keeping key players sharp without burning them out before the knockout rounds will define how far this team can go. Their next group fixture will offer more answers.