Controversial VAR decision: Why Kane’s penalty was retaken in England vs Croatia World Cup match

Arlington: England's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign commenced with significant drama at the Dallas Stadium on Wednesday, as a controversial penalty retake sparked intense debate during the Three Lions' 4-2 victory over Croatia.

The match was only nine minutes old when Croatia captain Luka Modrić was penalised for a high challenge on England's Noni Madueke inside the penalty area. England skipper Harry Kane stepped up to take the spot-kick in the 11th minute, but his initial effort was brilliantly saved by Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livaković.

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However, celebrations from the Croatian contingent were short-lived. A swift Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review intervened, ruling that Livaković had marginally encroached beyond his goal line before the ball was struck.

The decision ignited immediate controversy on the pitch and across broadcasting networks.

Conversely, the manner of the penalty itself drew heavy scrutiny. Several pundits expressed frustration with Kane’s stutter-step run-up.

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Handed a second opportunity in the 12th minute, Kane remained unfazed by the surrounding theatre. The striker clinically buried the retake into the back of the net, sending Livaković the wrong way to secure England's opening goal of the tournament.

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Although Croatia fought back with goals from Martin Baturina and Petar Musa, Kane added a second to his tally in the 42nd minute. Second-half strikes from Jude Bellingham and substitute Marcus Rashford ultimately sealed a vital three points for Thomas Tuchel's men in Group L.