Almost a week after the World Cup began, England will start their campaign against Croatia on Wednesday evening. We look ahead to the first match as the Three Lions try to end 60 years without winning the World Cup.
After waiting while teams like Scotland, the USA and Germany played their opening matches, England will finally take to the field at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington for the 2026 World Cup.
Thomas Tuchel’s squad selection caused plenty of discussion because of some big names left out. His first tournament as England manager comes with questions from the media after the Gareth Southgate era, which saw England come close to success several times.
The fans, however, feel more positive. As part of Operation Ladisfaction with Ladbrokes, more than 1,000 people across the UK were surveyed to find out what football fans would most enjoy at the World Cup. The most common feeling was excitement rather than fear or worry.
The top three emotions among fans were excitement (52%), hope (52%) and cautious optimism (37%).
Younger fans aged 18 to 24 were even more positive than older supporters, with more than a quarter saying they felt confident before the first match.
Fans also said their excitement was highest when the World Cup draw was made. More than half of those surveyed said they find the build-up to a major tournament just as exciting, or even more exciting, than the tournament itself.
So, at least until Wednesday night, England fans are feeling positive. But how will they feel after the final whistle? Ahead of another important meeting between England and Croatia, we looks at everything you need to know about the match.
Players to Watch
Croatia
Croatia have many experienced players in their squad. Stars such as Luka Modric, Andrej Kramaric and Ivan Perisic are all playing in what is expected to be their final World Cup. Because of this, Croatia will also depend on some younger players.
One of those players is 19-year-old Luka Vuskovic, who is expected to play in central defence. He could play in the middle of a back five alongside Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol, or on the left side of a central defensive pair.
After a successful loan spell at Hamburg, the Tottenham-owned defender has become one of the most talked-about young players in football. He is expected to play regularly in the Premier League next season and could be very important for Croatia at this World Cup.
With several older players in the team, Croatia will need a strong defence. Vuskovic’s job will be to help stop attacks, stay calm on the ball and reduce pressure on midfielders Modric and Mateo Kovacic.
His first challenge will be marking Harry Kane. However, after learning about Kane from Tottenham staff and scoring against Bayern Munich in a draw earlier this year, he already has some idea of what to expect.
England
For England, Thomas Tuchel has tried to build a squad that does not depend only on Harry Kane for goals. He has selected more traditional wingers instead of creative midfielders such as Phil Foden and Cole Palmer.
Even so, the midfield is expected to play a big role in helping Kane score goals, and Morgan Rogers could be one of the key players.
There is still debate about whether he should start ahead of Jude Bellingham in the number 10 role. However, Rogers has shown that he is one of England’s most dangerous midfielders in front of goal. Whether he starts or comes off the bench, he could make a big difference.
After helping Aston Villa win European silverware and enjoying a strong second half of the season, Rogers arrives at the World Cup full of confidence. His energy and runs beyond Kane could be very important for England.
The Key Battle
For many years, England have struggled in midfield against top teams. This was especially clear in the 2018 World Cup semi-final against Croatia.
England often packed the team with attacking players while trying to find the right balance in midfield.
This time, England seem more settled. Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson are expected to play deeper in midfield, while attacking players operate ahead of them.
Getting this midfield combination working well could be the key to beating Croatia.
Croatia, meanwhile, are very comfortable in possession. They move the ball well and can punish any mistakes. If England leave space, Luka Modric will be ready to find it.
Match Prediction
Before the tournament started, 67% of fans surveyed in the LADnation Survey with Ladbrokes predicted that England would reach at least the semi-finals. Thirteen percent believed England would win the World Cup.
SPORTbible is not going that far yet, but believes England’s strength, energy and quality in midfield could be too much for an older Croatian team.
The match may begin slowly because of the hot weather, but England are expected to take control in the second half and win 2-0.
England are also favourites with Ladbrokes at odds of 8/11. However, previous matches against Croatia show that this could still be a difficult game. A draw is priced at 13/5, while a Croatia win is priced at 19/5.
The Group L match between England and Croatia will kick off on Wednesday, June 17, at 9pm BST (3pm local time).
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