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England
Croatia
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Match Overview
The FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off for England and Croatia with a highly anticipated Group Stage clash at Wembley Stadium on Thursday, 18 June. This match is a rematch of the 2018 World Cup semi-final, where Croatia triumphed 2-1 in extra time, denying England a place in the final. Both teams will be eager to start their campaigns with a win, as the result could prove pivotal in a competitive group. England, playing at home, will have the backing of a passionate crowd, while Croatia will rely on their tournament experience to navigate a tough away fixture.
Team News & Expected Lineups
England is expected to line up in a 4-3-3 formation, with Jordan Pickford in goal. The defense likely features Kyle Walker, John Stones, Harry Maguire, and Luke Shaw. In midfield, Declan Rice will anchor, with Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden providing creativity. Up front, Harry Kane leads the line, flanked by Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford. Key absences include Reece James due to injury.
Croatia, managed by Zlatko Dalić, will likely deploy a 4-2-3-1 setup. Dominik Livaković starts in goal, with Joško Gvardiol, Dejan Lovren, Borna Barišić, and Josip Juranović in defense. The midfield duo of Marcelo Brozović and Luka Modrić will control the tempo, while Mateo Kovačić operates ahead of them. Andrej Kramarić and Ivan Perišić support striker Bruno Petković. Croatia will miss Mario Pašalić, who is sidelined with a muscle injury.
Head-to-Head
England and Croatia have faced each other 11 times, with Croatia holding a slight edge with 5 wins to England's 4, and 2 draws. Their most notable encounters include Croatia's 2-1 victory in the 2018 World Cup semi-final and England's 1-0 win in the group stage of UEFA Euro 2020. The rivalry has grown increasingly competitive, with both sides showcasing tactical battles in recent years.
Key Players to Watch
For England, captain Harry Kane remains the focal point in attack, with his goal-scoring prowess and playmaking ability crucial. Jude Bellingham brings energy and creativity in midfield, while John Stones anchors the defense with composure.
Croatia's veteran midfielder Luka Modrić continues to dictate play with his vision and experience. Joško Gvardiol is a rock in defense and a threat on set-pieces, while Ivan Perišić provides width and goal contributions from the flank.
Prediction & Analysis
England will look to dominate possession and exploit Croatia's aging midfield with their youthful energy, particularly through Bellingham and Foden. Croatia, however, will rely on their tactical discipline and counter-attacking threat, with Modrić pulling the strings. The match could be decided in midfield, where both teams boast world-class talent. England's home advantage and attacking depth may give them a slight edge, but Croatia's tournament pedigree makes them dangerous. A tightly contested 2-1 victory for England is the most likely outcome.