The wait is nearly over. England have had to bide their time but will make their World Cup 2026 bow on the sixth day of the tournament – live on ITV1.
It feels fitting that Thomas Tuchel’s side, who have made it no secret that they are targeting silverware this summer, face Croatia in their Group L opener.
The wily Eastern European operators broke English hearts in the semi-finals at World Cup 2018. Now the Three Lions have a chance to banish those demons – and, hopefully, kick off a successful campaign.
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This summer’s bloated tournament is a marathon not a sprint, but England will want to make a winning start and calm any early nerves.
Croatia have knock-out aspirations of their own and, with the likes of Luka Modrić, Ivan Perišić, and Mateo Kovačić in their ranks, should not be underestimated.
Radio Times brings you the predicted team news for England v Croatia at World Cup 2026.
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England v Croatia team news
England defender Tino Livramento’s tournament is over before it has begun. The Newcastle full-back has been ruled out of World Cup 2026 and Chelsea’s Trevoh Chalobah will take his place, though he is not available for the Croatia game.
Reports suggest that Tuchel will opt for the more physical duo of Ezri Konsa and John Stones at centre-back, which means a surprise omission for Marc Guehi, while Bukayo Saka may be eased into the tournament due to recent fitness issues.
Croatia have a clean bill of health ahead of Wednesday’s game.
England v Croatia predicted line-ups
England: Pickford; James, Konsa, Stones, O’Reilly; Rice, Anderson, Bellingham; Gordon, Kane, Madueke
Croatia: Livaković; Stanišić, Vušković, Šutalo, Gvardiol; Kovačić, Modrić; Baturina, Kramarić, Perišić; Budimir
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Authors
Ned is a sports writer at RadioTimes.com. He has covered a host of sports from EFL football, international cricket and golf all the way through to bike polo and triathlon.
