Milanello Corner

  England kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in the best possible fashion by securing an entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia at Dallas Stadium. Harry Kane played a starring role for the Three Lions, scoring twice in the first half to help his side claim all three points. Kane Scores a Brace as England Beat Croatia Thomas Tuchel's men arrived at the World Cup determined to prove they are genuine contenders to go all the way in the tournament. Facing a talented Croatian side, England started brightly and immediately took the initiative. Their positive approach paid off in the 12th minute when Harry Kane converted a re-taken penalty to give the Three Lions an early advantage. However, Croatia refused to back down. Zlatko Dalic's side fought their way back into the contest and equalized in the 36th minute through a superb strike from Martin Baturina. England responded quickly and regained the lead just six minutes later. Kane rose highest to power home a bullet header ...

  Portugal failed to begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in ideal fashion after being held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo. Selecao das Quinas took an early lead but were unable to build on their advantage as the Leopards fought back to earn a historic point.

  Erling Haaland marked his FIFA World Cup debut in the best possible fashion by scoring twice to inspire Norway to a 4-1 victory over Iraq. Although it was far from an easy contest, the Vikings eventually pulled away to secure all three points in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

  Lionel Messi continues to prove that he remains one of the best players in world football after producing a stunning hat-trick to inspire Argentina to a 3-0 victory over Algeria at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Not only did his goals secure all three points for La Albiceleste, but they also etched his name further into the tournament's history books.

  France started their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in the best possible fashion after defeating Senegal 3-1. Les Bleus star forward Kylian Mbappe once again showcased his world-class quality by scoring a brace to lead his side to a valuable opening victory.

  Ivory Coast made a positive start to their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign after edging past South American outfit Ecuador with a 1-0 victory. Manchester United starlet Amad Diallo emerged as the hero for Les Éléphants, scoring a dramatic late winner to earn his side a precious three points against La Tricolor.

    Iran and New Zealand kicked off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaigns in exciting fashion after playing out an entertaining 2-2 draw. Both sides delivered a thrilling spectacle despite lacking some of the star power associated with the tournament's traditional heavyweights.