Bukayo Saka expressed that England’s display against Croatia was “everything we were looking for” following their remarkable 7-0 victory in Rijeka, which set historical records.
Saka, along with Kane, found the back of the net twice, while Anthony Gordon, Jude Bellingham, and Morgan Rogers also added goals on a night to remember for Thomas Tuchel’s team.
This triumph marked England’s largest victory over a team ranked in the FIFA World Rankings’ top 50 since the rankings began in 1992, and it represented Croatia’s worst defeat ever.
The previous heaviest loss for Croatia had been a 6-0 Nations League defeat against Spain in 2018. Until now, they had never lost a home match by more than three goals, having previously fallen to England 4-1 in September 2008.
Kane, Gordon, Bellingham, and Saka all scored in the first half, marking the first time since March 2013 that four different England players found the net before halftime in a single match, reminiscent of an 8-0 victory over San Marino.
With six points after three Nations League matches, England can edge closer to quarter-final qualification with a win against Czechia on Tuesday.
After the game, Saka praised the team’s relentless attitude and their determination not to ease up in the second half.
“It was an incredible night. We started strong and maintained our dominance,” he said. “We played with high energy and made the most of our opportunities.”
“We relished that performance; it was unique and enjoyable. Our energy and clinical finishing today made all the difference,” he added.
7-0 – England have recorded their biggest margin of victory against a nation ranked in the top 50 of the FIFA World Rankings (since 1992).
Goliath. pic.twitter.com/9ip8jDzozr
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) October 3, 2026
“Scoring two goals for England feels great, and I’m thrilled with that,” Saka continued. “We demonstrated our desire, passion, and skill today, achieving everything we aimed for, and we want to finish strongly on Tuesday.”
Though it was Saka’s first time scoring two right-footed goals in a single match, it was Bellingham who truly shone, registering three assists alongside his goal. He became the first England midfielder to have four goal contributions in a match since David Platt in February 1993.
Last month, Bellingham was named England’s Player of the Year for 2026, and he created eight chances for his teammates—no player has generated more in a single top-tier Nations League game.
“He was phenomenal tonight. He rightfully earned the Player of the Year title and likely deserved the Man of the Match as well,” Saka praised Bellingham.
“He was remarkable, and I’m delighted to have him on the team.” Additionally, Saka recognized Gordon, who has contributed directly to a goal in each of his last five England games—only Kane has matched that in the last decade.
“He’s another player who’s impressive in an England jersey,” said Saka. “Having players who deliver performances like tonight’s is a blessing.”
Fan Take: This historic win is not just a testament to England’s rising prowess on the international stage, but it also rejuvenates hopes among fans for success in major tournaments ahead. With emerging talents like Saka and Bellingham, the future looks bright for English football, and this victory could set the tone for an exhilarating campaign in the Nations League and beyond.
Source: www.soccernews.com
