England begins its 2026 World Cup campaign Wednesday against Group L rival Croatia at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Manager Thomas Tuchel aims to secure early momentum and avenge the Three Lions' heartbreaking 2018 semifinal loss.
Harry Kane captains the squad as favorites, supported by midfield stars Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice. Tuchel has emphasized collective cohesion over individual talent, a strategy that notably excluded Trent Alexander-Arnold from the final roster despite his elite technical ability.
Croatia presents a seasoned challenge led by 40-year-old Real Madrid legend Luka Modrić. While key veterans like Ivan Perišić and Mateo Kovačić remain central to their system, the squad is significantly older than the team that defeated England in Russia eight years ago.
Tuchel acknowledged Croatia’s enduring quality but expressed confidence in his revamped lineup. The historic rivalry remains tense for English supporters, recalling both the 2018 defeat and the Euro 2008 qualifying failures that defined previous eras.
Following this opener, England faces Ghana in Boston on June 23, while Croatia travels to Toronto to play Panama.