England and Croatia announce starting XIs for 2026 World Cup opener
England and Croatia face off in their 2026 World Cup Group L opener. Harry Kane and Luka Modric are confirmed to start.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Author: Антон Зайцев
England and Croatia open their 2026 World Cup campaign with a Group L clash at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, USA.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has confirmed his starting lineup, featuring key stars including captain Harry Kane. Across the pitch, Croatia boss Zlatko Dalic has named veteran playmaker Luka Modric in his starting XI.
England starting lineup: Jordan Pickford, Reece James, Ezri Konsa, John Stones, Nico O'Reilly, Elliott Anderson, Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, Noni Madueke, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane.
Croatia starting lineup: Dominik Livakovic, Josip Sutalo, Luka Vuskovic, Josko Gvardiol, Josip Stanisic, Luka Modric, Mario Pasalic, Ivan Perisic, Petar Sucic, Martin Baturina, Petar Musa.
England enter this tournament looking to finally return to the pinnacle of world football, carrying the expectations of a highly talented generation. Croatia, meanwhile, continue to rely on their experienced core led by Modric, combined with a fresh generation of talent, aiming to remain protagonists on the world stage.