England get their 2026 World Cup campaign underway against Croatia in Dallas tonight, as the Three Lions aim to end 60 years of hurt on the biggest stage. This marks the first major international tournament match for Thomas Tuchel, who replaced long-serving Gareth Southgate after the Euro 2024 final defeat.
Tuchel's Surprise Squad Change
Tuchel has raised eyebrows with his decision to replace the injured Tino Livramento with Trevoh Chalobah. Livramento picked up a late knock within 24 hours of England's opener, allowing a squad change. Chalobah, a regular for Chelsea this season, was considered a surprise pick for the Three Lions.
Star-Studded Lineup
Tuchel boasts a star-studded team, with Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, and Declan Rice considered among the best players in the world. The German manager comes with a glittering CV in club football, having coached Chelsea and Bayern Munich, but the international game is a new frontier for him.
England have had the chance to watch most other nations in action at the World Cup, but now it is their turn. After a semi-final and quarter-final defeat in the previous two World Cups, expectations are high. With Tuchel in charge, fans are eager to see if the team can finally end the trophy drought.
Stick around as we bring you all the latest updates from England's opener against Croatia.
