England and Croatia are set to clash in Group L of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the AT&T Stadium in Dallas, Texas. The match marks the start of the tournament for both teams, with England chasing their first world title since 1966.

England manager Thomas Tuchel has faced criticism over his squad selection, but the team remains among the favorites. Captain Harry Kane, in top form after winning the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich, said: “It’s one of the best opportunities we will have as a team to win it.” He urged his teammates to “go for it” and be “free in the mind.”

Croatia, known for punching above their weight, finished runners-up in 2018 and third in 2022. Veteran captain Luka Modric, 40, is likely playing in his fifth and final World Cup. Coach Zlatko Dalic called Modric “my right hand on the pitch” and warned England about Kane, describing him as “the best striker in the world.”

Opta’s supercomputer gives England a 55.9% chance of winning, Croatia 20.8%, and a draw 23.3%. England are fourth in the title favorites list behind Spain, France, and Argentina.

Head-to-head, England lead with six wins to Croatia’s three, with two draws. Their last World Cup meeting was the 2018 semifinal, where Croatia won 2-1.

England defender Tino Livramento has been ruled out with a calf injury and replaced by Trevoh Chalobah. Croatia have no injury concerns.

Source: www.aljazeera.com