Is This England’s Tournament?
For England, every major tournament begins with the same question: could this finally be the one? Let’s take a closer look at their opener tonight, where the English side are favourites against the Croatians!
Thomas Tuchel’s side arrive in North America carrying both expectation and opportunity. PL champions, CL winners and global superstars are scattered throughout the squad, while a near-flawless qualification campaign only reinforced England’s status among the favourites for the trophy.
Standing in their way first are familiar opponents. Croatia have spent the last decade turning tournament football into an art form. Tournament finalists in 2018, third-place finishers in 2022 and perennial overachievers on the international stage, the Chequered Ones have repeatedly upset nations with greater resources and larger talent pools.
The memory of that semi-final defeat in Moscow still lingers for many England supporters. Tuesday offers an opportunity for a little revenge.
Match Analysis
England’s route to the tournament could hardly have been smoother. Eight qualifiers, eight victories and eight clean sheets underlined the strength of Tuchel’s squad, but recent friendlies suggested there is still work to be done. Defeats and disappointing performances against strong opposition exposed some vulnerabilities, particularly when England were asked to control games against technically gifted teams.
Croatia certainly fit that description. While Zlatko Dalic’s side may no longer possess the youthful energy that carried them to the 2018 final, they remain packed with tournament experience. Luka Modric continues to orchestrate from midfield, Ivan Perisic remains influential in wide areas and Josko Gvardiol provides leadership at the back.
The concern for Croatia lies defensively. They arrive at the tournament having conceded in each of their last six matches, a worrying trend against an England side blessed with attacking quality. Harry Kane remains the focal point, while Jude Bellingham has developed into one of the most complete midfielders in world football.
The midfield battle could ultimately decide the contest. Croatia will attempt to slow the tempo and force England into patient possession. England, meanwhile, will want quicker transitions and opportunities to exploit space around Croatia’s ageing core. If Tuchel’s side can move the ball quickly and disrupt Croatia’s rhythm, chances should come.
England also possess greater depth. As matches become stretched during the final half hour, the Three Lions can call upon game-changing options from the bench that few nations can match.
Croatia rarely make life easy for elite opponents, but there is a sense that this generation is entering its final chapter. England look younger, fresher and better equipped to handle the demands of a long tournament.
Team News
England have suffered one setback with Tino Livramento withdrawing from the squad through injury, prompting a call-up for Trevoh Chalobah. Reece James is expected to start at right-back, while Bukayo Saka may begin on the bench as Tuchel manages his workload following recent fitness concerns.
Anthony Gordon is pushing for a place in attack, while Jude Bellingham looks certain to occupy the advanced midfield role behind Harry Kane.
Croatia travel to Texas with a fully available squad. Modric and Perisic continue to provide experience and leadership, while Andrej Kramaric and MLS-based striker Petar Musa are competing for attacking roles. Young defender Luka Vuskovic is expected to feature in a back line anchored by Gvardiol.
Odds and Tips
Croatia’s tournament pedigree means they should never be underestimated, particularly in major competitions where they have consistently exceeded expectations.
However, England appear to have more weapons, more athleticism and greater attacking depth across the pitch. Croatia are likely to enjoy periods of possession, but their recent defensive record is difficult to ignore. Expect a competitive contest, but one that gradually swings England’s way.
Tip: England to win at 1.75.
Don’t forget that we also have Early Payout on this match, which you can read more about here.
Please note that the odds might have changed since the writing and/or publication of this article.
Last updated: 17.06.26
