SHABAB CHOWDHURY

Yes, England fans had to endure a few nervy moments during their Group L opener at the FIFA World Cup in Texas on Wednesday (yesterday, Bangladesh time), but by the end of the night they left fully satisfied as Thomas Tuchel’s men pulled off an emphatic 4-2 victory over Croatia.

Amid a host of positives and a few reminders of lingering defensive frailties, the biggest takeaway was simple: this England side were fun, proactive and one of the most entertaining so far among the traditional heavyweights.

It felt uncharacteristically English, especially in an opening World Cup match. The 1966 champions may have looked less secure defensively -- unusual under Tuchel -- but in attack they offered abundance.

The Group L meeting carried significance long before kickoff. Croatia’s extra-time victory over England in the 2018 World Cup semifinals added an extra edge to the occasion and the heavyweight clash at Dallas Stadium more than lived up to its billing.

Star striker Harry Kane struck twice but Croatia dragged themselves

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