England opened their Group L campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia in Dallas, collecting three points after an attacking display. Harry Kane led the way with two goals in the first half. His first came from the penalty spot after a retake, while his second arrived from a well-delivered Declan Rice corner. Despite England creating several chances, Croatia remained competitive throughout the contest.

Croatia reduced the deficit when Martin Baturina found the net following a defensive mistake, before England restored control after the break. Just two minutes into the second half, Jude Bellingham drove into the penalty area and finished into the far corner to make it 3-1. Croatia responded again through Peta Musa after Ivan Perisic helped create the opportunity, keeping the game within reach. However, England continued to press forward and created numerous chances. Late in the match, substitutes Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford combined for England’s fourth goal, with Rashford finishing the move to complete a positive opening result for Thomas Tuchel’s side.

Colombia also began their tournament with a win, defeating World Cup debutants Uzbekistan 3-1. Luis Diaz was the standout performer, contributing both a goal and an assist. Colombia took the lead when Diaz delivered a precise pass that allowed Daniel Munoz to score with an impressive finish. Uzbekistan worked hard to stay in the contest and were rewarded midway through the second half when Abbosbek Fayzullaev headed in the equaliser.

The South American side regained the advantage only a few minutes later. Diaz, who was influential throughout the match, cut inside and placed his shot into the far corner to restore Colombia’s lead. Uzbekistan continued to look for another response and remained competitive until the closing stages. Deep into stoppage time, substitute Jaminton Campaz headed home a cross from Cucho Hernandez to secure the victory. Uzbekistan nearly scored again before the final whistle, but Bekhruz Karimov’s effort struck the crossbar.

In the other Group L fixture, Ghana earned a 1-0 win over Panama in Toronto. The match was closely contested, with clear opportunities limited for much of the game. Panama defended effectively and restricted Ghana’s attacking threats, while both sides struggled to create sustained pressure in the final third.

As the match moved into stoppage time, Ghana found the breakthrough. Substitute Brandon Thomas-Asante advanced down the left and delivered a low cross into the penalty area. Caleb Yirenkyi reacted quickest and converted from close range in the 95th minute to score the only goal of the game. The result gives Ghana an important three points ahead of their next group fixture.

Following the opening round of matches, England sit at the top of Group L on goal difference, with Ghana also collecting three points. Colombia and Ghana have made positive starts to their campaigns, while Croatia, Uzbekistan and Panama will look to respond in their upcoming matches.