After 21 World Cup games over the first six days of the 2026 World Cup, England will finally get their tournament underway with a tough Group L opener against old foes Croatia, on Wednesday at 9pm. We have brought you the latest team news from both camps, profiled Croatia, and analysed England's probable line-up. Now it is your turn to predict the result.
Team News
Read more: England vs Croatia team news: FOUR places up for grabs - what we know so far. Read more: Croatia predicted XI vs England: Do other countries care as much about team news leaks?
More on Croatia
Read more: Luka Modric is still Croatia's main man at 40 - and out to break England hearts again. Read more: World Cup 2026: Why Croatia remain 'huge threat' to England with Modric and a new generation.
Analysis: Who should start for England?
Read more: Who should start for England against Croatia? Picking Thomas Tuchel's first World Cup XI.
Further Reading
Read more: FA chief explains why Thomas Tuchel was handed new contract before World Cup as clause revealed. Read more: Bukayo Saka ready to take World Cup 'gamble' in huge boost to England's chances. Read more: John Stones using Pep Guardiola frustration as England ace talks up World Cup form.
Play Along with the 2026 World Cup
Read more: Wasting time until the World Cup starts? Choose your England team, plan your TV schedule, predict the winners, sweepstake and more.
