England defeat Croatia again to secure Nations League quarter-final place

England secured a place in the Nations League quarter-finals by beating Croatia 2-1, denying their opponents the chance to avenge last month’s 7-0 defeat in Rijeka.

Morgan Rogers opened the scoring for the hosts in the 24th minute, before Petar Sucic brought Croatia level shortly after the hour mark. England captain Harry Kane then converted a penalty in the 64th minute to restore his side’s lead and claim victory.

The result took England’s points tally to 12, three behind group leaders Spain. Croatia remain on three points after failing to respond to their heavy home defeat by England on 3 October.

Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo highlighted Croatia’s positive start at Wembley, with the visitors appearing determined to restore some pride after their 7-0 loss. England, however, gradually established control and created the clearer opportunities.

Kane played a key role in the opening goal. He began the move by finding Jude Bellingham, who in turn set up Rogers. The Chelsea midfielder then found a way through the Croatian defence to put England ahead.

Anthony Gordon, the Barcelona player, had two good chances to extend England’s advantage, but neither of his efforts was on target. Thomas Tuchel’s side were unable to add a second before the interval, allowing Croatia to remain in the contest.

Croatia’s equaliser came after an error by Jarell Quansah, who attempted to play the ball backwards. Sucic took advantage and finished in the 59th minute to make it 1-1.

Kane then delivered the decisive moment of an outstanding individual performance. Quansah was held by Ivan Smolcic, and after reviewing the incident with the video assistant referee, the referee awarded England a penalty.

Kane stepped up to take responsibility and converted from the spot, giving the Three Lions the lead for a second time.

Croatia improved noticeably after Luka Modric came on in the 76th minute. They created several opportunities that could have brought them level, but England held on to complete another win over their opponents.

England, who finished third at the 2026 World Cup, have now guaranteed their place in the last eight. Their next match will be away to Spain on Sunday at the Metropolitano, with top spot in the third group of the first tier at stake.

The listed fixtures are in the Nations League’s first path, with Spain, England and Croatia involved on 15 November 2026 alongside Czechia.