Englandvs
Croatia
Group Stage · Wed, Jun 17, 2026 · 21:00 ET · Estadio Dallas, Dallas
Modrić's last stand against England's new guard
At 40, Luka Modrić could become the oldest outfield player in World Cup history if he starts this match. His midfield battle with Jude Bellingham — now a Real Madrid teammate — frames this as a generational shift. Croatia knocked England out of the 2018 semifinals (2-1 after extra time) and the 2021 Euros group stage (1-0), but Southgate's side has since blooded Foden, Saka, and Rice as core starters. The Dallas heat (kickoff 3pm local time) tests Croatia's aging legs.
Gvardiol's revenge arc
Joško Gvardiol was 16 when England eliminated Croatia in the 2021 Euros round of 16. Now Leipzig's $100m defender anchors Dalic's backline, likely tasked with containing Harry Kane — who scored the winner in that Wembley meeting. Croatia's defense conceded just 4 goals in 8 Euro 2024 qualifiers, but England put 7 past North Macedonia in their last competitive match. The tactical duel between Walker's overlapping runs and Perišić's crosses could decide this.
Group L's early psychological edge
With Saudi Arabia and Ghana as group underdogs, this match likely determines who tops Group L. England's last three major tournament openers were draws (2016, 2020 Euros, 2022 WC), while Croatia lost theirs in 2018 before reaching the final. A third-place finish here could still advance, but the winner avoids facing Group K's likely leaders (Spain or Brazil) in the Round of 32. Check the /world-cup-2026-standings for permutations.
Match details
- Competition: World Cup 2026
- Stage: Group Stage
- Venue: Estadio Dallas, Dallas
- Kickoff: Wed, Jun 17, 2026 · 21:00 ET
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Frequently asked questions
Where is England vs Croatia being played?+
AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas — a 3pm local time kickoff on June 17, 2026.
What was the score last time England played Croatia?+
England won 1-0 in the Euro 2020 group stage (Sterling goal), then 2-1 in the 2021 Nations League (Saka winner).
Has Croatia ever beaten England at a World Cup?+
No. Their 2018 semifinal win (2-1) was the first competitive meeting; they drew 0-0 in 2004 and 2006 friendlies.
Who is Croatia's top scorer against England?+
Ivan Perišić (2 goals) — including the equalizer in the 2018 semifinal.
Can both teams advance from Group L?+
Yes. The top two qualify automatically, and 8 of 12 third-place teams advance. See /world-cup-2026-groups for scenarios.