England’s World Cup 2026 Quest Begins Against Croatia on June 17

England will begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Croatia on June 17 — a fixture that carries enormous historical weight given the two nations’ dramatic encounters at previous tournaments.

A Familiar Opponent

England and Croatia have met at three consecutive major tournaments, with Croatia famously knocking England out of the 2018 World Cup in Moscow before the Three Lions gained revenge with a Euro 2020 victory at Wembley. The June 17 opener promises to be another tense and tactical encounter between two teams who know each other’s strengths extremely well.

England manager Gareth Southgate has named a strong squad for the tournament, with the attacking options available arguably the best England have had at any World Cup. Harry Kane leads the line as captain, supported by a vibrant group of young forward players who have been performing at the highest level in the Premier League throughout the season.

Squad & Form

England arrive in North America in confident form following an unbeaten qualifying campaign. Key injury concerns have been monitored closely in the build-up, with Southgate mindful of not over-playing key individuals before the tournament begins in earnest.

Midfielder Jude Bellingham is expected to be central to England’s ambitions, operating in an advanced midfield role that allows him to contribute both creatively and in front of goal. His form at Real Madrid throughout the season has been outstanding.

Can England Go All the Way?

After reaching the final of Euro 2020 and the semi-finals of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, expectations are higher than ever. This squad may represent England’s best chance to end 60 years of hurt and win a second World Cup. The opener against Croatia will set the tone — start well, and Wembley-style momentum could follow.