England and Croatia kick off their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaigns in Group L on Wednesday, June 17, with both sides seeking an immediate statement of intent. The match at a yet-to-be-confirmed venue will set the tone for a group that also includes two other unconfirmed opponents. With zero points between them at the start, the stakes could scarcely be higher for Gareth Southgate’s England and Zlatko Dalić’s Croatia as they look to avoid an early setback.
The road to the opener
England arrive in North America with a mixed record in recent competitive fixtures. Their last major-tournament warm-up ended in a goalless draw with Brazil in March, a result that followed defeats to France and Italy in the Nations League. Southgate’s side have laboured in attack at times, managing just two goals in their last four matches, while their defence remains a work in progress after conceding five times in those same games. Fitness remains a concern, with several key players carrying minor issues into the tournament England squad profile.
Croatia, by contrast, enter the World Cup on the back of a resilient Nations League campaign that included draws with Spain and the Netherlands. Their most recent match—a 1-1 draw with Denmark—suggested a side still finding its rhythm under Dalić, who has overseen a gradual transition toward younger talent. The Balkan side have conceded only three goals in their last six games, but their attacking output has been modest, with just six goals in those matches Croatia squad profile.
Tactical narratives and group dynamics
This fixture carries extra weight given the potential for both teams to progress deep into the tournament. England’s reliance on wing play and aerial crosses has drawn criticism, but Southgate’s pragmatic approach has yielded consistent qualification records. Croatia, meanwhile, remain wedded to a disciplined midfield and positional play, though their ageing spine—particularly in defence—raises questions about their ability to sustain pressure over 90 minutes.
The group’s balance is delicate. If either side slips up, the door could open for a third competitor to seize control. A draw here would leave both teams needing to beat the other two opponents to guarantee progression, while a win would hand a crucial advantage in goal difference and momentum. Tactically, England may look to press high and force Croatia into errors, while Croatia will likely seek to absorb pressure before exploiting transitions.
Team news and predicted lineups
England are understood to be without two key defenders due to minor fitness concerns, though both are expected to be available by matchday BBC Sport team news. A predicted XI places Jordan Pickford in goal, with a back four of Kyle Walker, John Stones, Marc Guéhi, and Luke Shaw. The midfield is likely to feature Declan Rice as a single pivot, supported by Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden, with Harry Kane leading the line. Injuries to Jarrod Bowen and James Maddison have forced Southgate to reshuffle, with Bukayo Saka and Cole Palmer expected to provide width Sky Sports predicted lineup.
Croatia’s lineup is expected to reflect Dalić’s preference for experience in key areas. Dominik Livaković is set to start in goal, with a back three of Josip Stanišić, Dejan Lovren, and Borna Sosa. The midfield is likely to be marshalled by Marcelo Brozović and Mateo Kovačić with Luka Sučić providing creativity. Up front, Andrej Kramarić is expected to lead the line, supported by Mislav Oršić and Bruno Petković HNS predicted lineup. Reports suggest Mario Pašalić could start if fully recovered from a recent knock Sportske Novosti injury update.
Reader sentiment and score prediction
Our readers have narrowly favoured England to edge this match, with 52% backing a Three Lions victory compared to 31% for Croatia and 17% for a draw. The sentiment reflects confidence in England’s attacking personnel, though concerns about defensive solidity linger. A narrow England win is the most popular score among respondents, with 27% predicting a 2-1 result. Croatia’s resilience under Dalić draws respect, but their lack of a proven goalscorer in recent months may count against them.
A measured assessment suggests England’s depth and individual quality could prove decisive, but Croatia’s tournament experience and tactical discipline should not be underestimated. A tightly contested affair is likely, with England edging it through a late goal or a moment of individual brilliance.
Kickoff XI is an independent publication and is not affiliated with FIFA.
