Kane penalty keeps England on course for Nations League top spot

England secured their place in the Nations League quarter-finals with a 2-1 victory over Croatia, as Harry Kane’s second-half penalty ended the visitors’ hopes of avenging last month’s heavy defeat.

Morgan Rogers put England ahead in the 24th minute before Petar Sucic brought Croatia level shortly after the hour mark. Kane then converted from the spot in the 64th minute to settle the contest.

The result took England to 12 points, three behind Group C leaders Spain. Croatia remain on three points and could not respond to their 7-0 home loss to England in Rijeka on 3 October.

Croatia began positively at a stadium where they were determined to restore some pride after that emphatic defeat. However, England gradually took control, with Rogers providing the breakthrough for the side who finished third at the 2026 World Cup.

The move began with Kane, who found Jude Bellingham. The midfielder then laid the ball off to Rogers, and the Chelsea player finished despite Croatia’s attempts to close him down.

Anthony Gordon, now of Barcelona, had two opportunities to extend England’s lead, but both efforts went wide.

Thomas Tuchel’s team were unable to add a second before Croatia found an equaliser in the 59th minute. Jarrell Quansah attempted to play the ball back, but his error allowed Sucic to take advantage and level the score.

Kane had the decisive say on an otherwise notable night for the England captain. Quansah was held by Ivan Smolcic, and after reviewing the incident with the video assistant referee, the on-field official awarded England a penalty.

Kane stepped up to take responsibility and sent the goalkeeper the wrong way, restoring England’s lead and securing the win.

Croatia improved after Luka Modric came on in the 76th minute. The visitors created several chances that might have brought them level, but they were unable to find a second goal.

England will now travel to face Spain at the Metropolitano on Sunday, 15 November 2026, with top spot in League A’s Group C at stake. Spain will be looking to protect their three-point advantage, while England will aim to close the gap after confirming their progress to the last eight.