England is in search of their first World Cup title since 1966, and there is a growing belief that this might be their year. Harry Kane is once again leading a talented group of players, and they remain among the favourites to go all the way.
The England team will kick off their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign against Croatia. Over the years, Croatia has established itself as one of the toughest teams to face on the international setup. After finishing runners-up in 2018 and securing third place in both 1998 and 2022, they know what it takes to perform under pressure.
Veteran midfielder Luka Modric, now 40, is expected to make his final World Cup appearance, but he continues to be a crucial player for the side. With his experience and leadership, Croatia will once again look to challenge the tournament’s biggest contenders.
England vs Croatia – Head-to-Head
England and Croatia have faced each other 11 times over the years; the Three Lions have registered six wins, while Croatia has managed victory only thrice, with the remaining two matches ending in draws. England has also outscored Croatia 22-13 during that period.
The rivalry has delivered some unforgettable moments, including Croatia’s thrilling victory in the FIFA World Cup 2018 semi-final, considered their best face-off. Since then, however, England have had the better of the contests, remaining unbeaten in their last three meetings with two wins and a draw.
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Other memorable encounters include Theo Walcott’s hat-trick in England’s 4-1 win in 2008 and Wayne Rooney’s standout performance in a thrilling 4-2 victory as a teenager in 2004.
Interestingly, when it comes to major tournaments, neither side holds an advantage. England and Croatia have each claimed two wins against the other across World Cup and European Championship meetings.
England vs Croatia FIFA World Cup 2026 prediction
England enter the contest as slight favourites, keeping their recent record against Croatia in mind. While Croatia’s experience in major tournaments and the presence of Luka Modric make them a dangerous opponent, England’s attacking quality, led by Harry Kane, could prove decisive. Expect a closely fought encounter, with Croatia likely to challenge England throughout the match, but the Three Lions should have enough quality to begin their World Cup campaign with a victory.
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Predicted Score: England 2-1 Croatia
England Probable starting XI
Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford
Defender: Reece James, Ezri Konsa, and Marc Guéhi,
Midfielder: Nico O’Reilly, Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson
Attackers: Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon
Striker: Harry Kane
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Croatia Probable starting XI
Goalkeeper: Dominik Livakovic
Defender: Josip Stanisic, Josip Sutalo, Luka Vuskovic, and Mateo Kovacic
Midfielder: Josko Gvardiol, Luka Modric
Striker: Ante Budimir
Frequently asked questions
1.What time does the England vs Croatia FIFA World Cup 2026 match kick off?
The Group L match kicks off at 3 pm local time/ 20:00 GMT / 01:30 P.M. IST
2. Where will the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L match between England vs Croatia take place?
It will take place at the AT&T Stadium, Dallas, Texas
3. How to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 match between England vs Croatia?
United States – FOX Network, fuboTV, Telemundo, Telemundo Deportes En Vivo, FOX One
Canada – TSN+, TSN1, TSN4, TSN5, RDS, CTV, RDS App, CTV App, Crave
México – Canal 5 Televisa, TUDN, Azteca 7, TUDN En Vivo, Las Estrellas, Azteca Deportes En Vivo, ViX México
United Kingdom – BBC Sport Web, BBC One, BBC iPlayer
India – Unite8 Sports Channel
Also Read: Portugal vs DR Congo Prediction: Who Will Win The FIFA World Cup 2026 Group K Clash?
