Starting XI
Jordan Pickford: The goalkeeper experienced some inaccurate clearances during the first half and might consider that he could have performed better on Croatia's opening goal. Rating: 5
Nico O'Reilly: Making his first start in a major tournament at 19 years old, O'Reilly showed some initial nerves but delivered a solid overall performance. He had two notable chances to score from second-half corners. Rating: 6
John Stones: The Manchester City centre-back assumed significant responsibility in building play from the back. There were indications that he and Ezri Konsa require additional time to develop their partnership in major tournaments. Rating: 5
Ezri Konsa: The Aston Villa defender, a preferred choice of manager Thomas Tuchel, showed moments where the limited time playing alongside Stones was apparent. Rating: 5
Reece James: Although he grew into the match, James had a quieter game compared to usual. He was part of a new England defensive line that conceded two goals. Rating: 6
Declan Rice: The Arsenal midfielder exhibited his characteristic powerful runs and was a vital component of England's spine. His set-piece deliveries were excellent, providing the assist for Harry Kane's second goal and creating two excellent chances for O'Reilly. Rating: 7
Elliot Anderson: Demonstrating maturity reminiscent of his earliest appearances for England, Anderson's pass behind the Croatian defense set up Jude Bellingham's goal. Rating: 6
Anthony Gordon: Gordon offered energetic play but lacked decisive impact in this match. His pressing was instrumental in keeping Croatia under pressure. However, a loose pass prevented a potential through ball to Madueke. Rating: 6
Jude Bellingham: Entrusted with the number 10 role, Bellingham made a promising early run and scored to put England ahead 3-2. A positive start from the Real Madrid midfielder. Rating: 7
Noni Madueke: Bringing considerable energy, Madueke's game intelligence earned England a penalty. His pace made him England's most threatening attacker. Rating: 7
Harry Kane: Kane was fortunate to retake his first-half penalty and then scored England's second goal from a set-piece with a strong header. He dropped deep to facilitate Madueke, indicating a promising partnership. Rating: 8
Substitutes
Morgan Rogers (72 mins): Replaced Rice and consistently sought to engage with the ball. Rating: 6
Marcus Rashford (72 mins): Entered as the game opened up and demonstrated elite finishing by calmly scoring England's fourth goal. Rating: 7
Bukayo Saka (72 mins): Came on as England aimed to maintain control and assisted Rashford's goal. Rating: 7
Djed Spence (80 mins): Substituted in at right-back with James moving into midfield, Spence had a late chance to score. Rating: 6
Marc Guehi (87 mins): Came on for the final minutes, replacing John Stones. Rating: 6
How to play
invites readers to rate the players out of 10 for this match. The rating window closes 30 minutes after the final whistle. A BBC account is required to participate.
Once closed, the displayed scores represent the average of all user submissions.
