England are heavy favourites to beat Croatia in their World Cup 2026 Group L opener on June 17 in Dallas, with odds of 1.40. Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden lead a squad that is desperate to avenge the 2018 World Cup semi-final defeat — and Luka Modric’s likely final World Cup adds an extra narrative edge.
England vs Croatia: Date, Time and Venue
The match kicks off on Wednesday, 17 June 2026 at 4pm ET (9pm UK time) at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Dallas, Texas. Group L also contains Ghana and Panama.
How England Arrive
Harry Kane (32) arrives as England’s all-time record scorer with over 68 international goals. Alongside him, Jude Bellingham (22) has developed into one of the best midfielders in the world at Real Madrid. Bukayo Saka and Cole Palmer provide width and creativity.
Thomas Tuchel’s England in Group L are expected to qualify comfortably, with this Croatia opener representing the toughest fixture before the final group game against Ghana and Panama.
How Croatia Arrive
This is likely to be Luka Modric’s final World Cup. The 40-year-old remains a competitive player for Real Madrid, but Croatia’s golden generation is fading. They remain an organized, technically gifted side under Zlatko Dalic, with Mateo Kovacic (Manchester City) and Josko Gvardiol (Man City) the key figures alongside the legendary Modric.
Croatia’s 2018 triumph — defeating England 2-1 in the semi-finals — remains a painful memory for English fans. This match represents a chance to close that chapter.
Predicted Line-ups
England (4-3-3): Pickford; Alexander-Arnold, Guehi, Konsa, Trippier; Rice, Bellingham, Foden; Saka, Kane, Palmer.
Croatia (4-3-3): Livakovic; Stanisic, Sutalo, Gvardiol, Sosa; Brozovic, Modric, Kovacic; Kramaric, Petkovic, Pasalic.
Odds Analysis and Betting Tips
| Result | Odds | |——–|——| | England Win | **1.40** | | Draw | **3.75** | | Croatia Win | **6.50** |
England should win, but Croatia never makes it easy. The best value bet is England to win + under 3.5 goals (around 1.90) — both teams are defensively solid. Kane to score at any time (2.10) is also strong value given his record and the supply from Bellingham and Saka. Avoid big England handicaps — Croatia can hold a line.
FAQ
Will England beat Croatia at the 2026 World Cup?
England are favourites at 1.40 and have a stronger squad. Expect a 2-0 or 1-0 England win. Croatia are organised but lack the firepower to threaten England’s defence consistently.
When is England vs Croatia at the 2026 World Cup?
The match is on Wednesday 17 June 2026, kicking off at 4pm ET (9pm UK time) at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Dallas, Texas.
What group are England in at the 2026 World Cup?
England are in Group L with Croatia, Ghana and Panama. England and Croatia are the two favourites to qualify for the Round of 32.
Is this Luka Modric’s last World Cup?
Almost certainly yes. Modric will be 40 years old during the 2026 World Cup, making this his fifth and almost certainly final tournament. He remains one of the greatest midfielders in history.
Where can I watch England vs Croatia in the UK?
The 2026 World Cup will be broadcast free-to-air on BBC and ITV in the UK. England’s matches will be on one of these two channels, with live streaming via BBC iPlayer and ITVX.
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