By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
The 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered more excitement on Wednesday as England secured an entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia, DR Congo earned a historic draw against Portugal, and Colombia began their campaign with a convincing win over Uzbekistan.
England made an impressive start to their Group L campaign with a six-goal thriller against Croatia in Dallas.
Captain Harry Kane opened the scoring from the penalty spot before restoring England’s lead with a first-half header after Croatia had twice fought back through Martin Baturina and Petar Musa.
Jude Bellingham extended England’s advantage shortly after the break, while Marcus Rashford sealed the victory late on to hand Thomas Tuchel’s side all three points.
In the group’s other fixture, Ghana snatched a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in Toronto.
Caleb Yirenkyi scored in stoppage time after a fine assist from Brandon Thomas-Asante, giving the Black Stars a winning start in a match that appeared destined to end goalless.
Group K produced one of the tournament’s biggest surprises as DR Congo held Portugal to a 1-1 draw. João Neves gave Portugal an early lead, but Yoane Wissa made history by scoring DR Congo’s first-ever FIFA World Cup goal to earn his country a memorable point.
Cristiano Ronaldo, making a record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance, was unable to add to his goal tally.
Colombia also enjoyed a winning start in Group K with a 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan in Mexico City. Daniel Muñoz put the South Americans ahead before Abbosbek Fayzullayev levelled for the World Cup debutants.
Luis Díaz restored Colombia’s lead with his first World Cup goal, while Jaminton Campaz added a late third to complete a deserved victory.
With goals, late drama and historic moments, the latest round of matches further highlighted the excitement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as teams battle for places in the knockout stage.
