In a remarkable display, England secured a 7-0 victory over Croatia in a closed-doors Nations League match held in Rijeka on October 14, 2023. The match unfolded against a picturesque Adriatic backdrop, yet the atmosphere was marred by the presence of 6,000 children in the stands, a decision that raised serious questions about Uefa's stance on racism.

Despite the match being played behind closed doors due to previous incidents involving Nazi salutes and weapons, the Croatian Football Association allowed the children's attendance, sending a confusing message about racism in football. The irony was palpable as children filled the stands while the adult fanbase faced punishment, with only a mere 100 England supporters in attendance.

On the pitch, Jude Bellingham showcased his exceptional talent, scoring two goals and assisting in several others, marking his eighth goal in just eight matches for England. The scoring began early, with Harry Kane netting the opener, followed by Bellingham doubling the lead shortly after. The team displayed a fluid and dynamic style, with goals from Bukayo Saka and Alex Scott contributing to a dominant performance.

Despite facing a weakened Croatian side, England's display was characterized by tight defense and relentless pressing, a significant improvement from past tournaments. The match served as a reminder of England's potential under manager Thomas Tuchel, with a midfield trio of Scott, Anderson, and Bellingham demonstrating both skill and synergy.

However, the evening was overshadowed by the troubling context of racism in Croatian football, highlighting the need for Uefa to address these issues more seriously. As Gianni Infantino often claims, football should unite the world, but in this instance, it also reflected deeper societal problems. England's performance was a bright spot, yet the underlying issues remain a significant concern for the sport.