Dominik Kotarski

England begin 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with Croatia clash.

England vs Croatia kicks off at 20:00 [GMT+1] on Wednesday, June 17, at the AT&T Stadium. This highly anticipated Group L fixture could be one of the most significant opening fixtures of the group stage. Both nations arrive with impressive recent records and genuine ambitions of progressing deep into the tournament. In the last edition of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the Three Lions finished at the top of Group B, eventually making an exit in the quarter-finals following a 2-1 loss to France. England arrive in outstanding form under Thomas Tuchel. The Three Lions have won 14 of their last 20 matches in all competitions, averaging 2.2 goals scored while conceding just 0.45 per game. Those figures underline the balance England have achieved between attacking quality and defensive stability. Even more impressive is their current run. England have won each of their last 11 matches, scoring an average of three goals per game while conceding only once during that period. Their ability to dominate opponents has been particularly evident in recent weeks, with every one of their last five victories coming by margins of at least two goals. Recent head-to-head meetings offer little clear advantage, with England winning two of the last four encounters. More relevant is their current form, with England’s remarkable winning streak giving them a slight edge heading into the fixture. A 4—2—3—1 formation with Harry Kane in attack is expected. Jude Bellingham, Arsenal’s Saka and Anthony Gordon could form an attacking trio behind the Bayern forward. Croatia, however, are unlikely to be intimidated. Zlatko Dalić's side continue to demonstrate why they have become one of the most consistent performers on the international stage over the last decade. They have won 10 of their last 15 matches in all competitions, averaging 2.33 goals scored and only 0.8 conceded per game. They arrive unbeaten in their last eight matches and have won their previous three, scoring three goals per game during that stretch. They have also avoided defeat in 12 of their last 14 World Cup matches, highlighting a resilience that has become synonymous with the national team. While many of those games have ended in draws, that record demonstrates Croatia's knack for staying in contests regardless of the opposition. Croatia's experience and tournament pedigree should also ensure they remain competitive throughout, but England's combination of defensive solidity, attacking efficiency and momentum makes them narrow favourites to start their World Cup campaign with a victory. A 4—2—3—1 formation with Ante Budimir in attack is expected against England.