England had so far never won their opening match of a European Championship final phase (5 draws and 4 defeats).
But Gareth Southgate's team struck a big blow at home at Wembley, against Croatia, finalist of the last World Cup in Russia against France (4-2).
With a rejuvenated formation and a very talented generation, the English, outsiders of the competition, launched their Euro perfectly with this victory (1-0) and took their revenge for the semi-final of the 2018 Worlds.
What you must remember
Faced with disappointing Croats, England was content with a small goal.
But the English had made a big start.
Foden first finds the post (6th) then the defender of OM Caleta-Car must make a decisive return against Sterling who was going to strike (8th).
On the corner, Philipps's volley was repelled by Croatian goalkeeper Livakovic, the successor to ex-Monegasque Subasic.
Rarely worried, the English found the loophole after the recovery, paradoxically when Croatia finally seemed to come out of the water.
Phillips eliminates an opponent before serving Sterling perfectly into the box.
The Manchester City striker controls and connects with a powerful strike that Livakovic can only deflect (1-0, 57th).
The player: Raheem Sterling
Harry Kane was expected but the Tottenham striker was generally disappointing.
It was Raheem Sterling who played the saviors by scoring the winning goal.
The 26-year-old Manchester City striker scored his 15th selection goal and was rewarded for his activity.
He missed the double, while he was in a good position, by sending his recovery above (75th).
Within hours of the match, Raheem Sterling and his teammate Jordan Henderson had been made members of the British Empire by the Queen of England.
Sterling fought for racial equality in sport by participating in the United Nations #FightRacism campaign while launching his own foundation for young people.
The number: 8
Statistics show that the match was generally balanced: 5 chances on each side, 8 shots including two on target for each team.
And a goal for the English ...
He said
“I grew up near Wembley and always dreamed of scoring a goal there in a big tournament.
This dream has come true.
It's an incredible feeling.
We could have scored more but I'm very happy with this goal.
We pushed, pushed and we had possession.
It's great to start this Euro with a victory.
"
Raheem Sterling, England striker