Marcus Rashford’s Hamstring Tightness Puts England on Alert Before Ghana Match

England’s World Cup got a whole lot more interesting after the opener — and not just because of the scoreline. Marcus Rashford, who came off the bench to score a brilliant fourth goal in a 4-2 win over Croatia, is now dealing with a tight hamstring that has the team’s medical staff keeping a close watch.

The Manchester United forward didn’t participate in Thursday’s practice match against MLS side Kansas City, which England won 5-1. According to The Sun, Rashford reported discomfort in his hamstring and glute area after the Croatia game. The team has not confirmed the severity, but it’s enough of a concern that he sat out the scrimmage entirely.

How Rashford’s World Cup Opener Unfolded

Manager Thomas Tuchel opted to start Anthony Gordon on the left wing against Croatia, with Rashford on the bench. The game itself was a rollercoaster. Harry Kane opened from the penalty spot, Croatia equalized through Martin Baturina, Kane headed home from a Declan Rice corner, and then Petar Musa made it 2-2 before halftime.

Jude Bellingham put England ahead early in the second half with a finish that capped a surging run. Then came Rashford’s moment. He replaced Gordon and sealed the win with a goal that reminded everyone why Barcelona’s decision not to sign him permanently after his 2025-26 loan stint might backfire. Barca instead went and bought Gordon. If Rashford keeps producing like this, that choice could haunt them.

Injury Timeline and What’s at Stake

England’s next match is against Ghana, and Tuchel will want his full attacking arsenal available. Ghana won’t roll over, and losing Rashford’s pace and finishing ability would be a blow — especially if Gordon struggles or needs rest.

Rashford’s history with muscle injuries adds some unease here. He’s dealt with tightness before, and hamstring issues can linger if not handled right. The fact that he played through the Croatia game and still scored suggests it’s not a tear or a pull — more of a warning sign. England’s staff will likely monitor him closely in the coming days and make a call closer to kickoff.

For now, it’s a wait-and-see situation. The team has not ruled him out, and Rashford himself hasn’t said much publicly. But if he misses the Ghana game, it’ll be a test of England’s depth. And if he plays and aggravates it, that’s a bigger problem down the line.