England vs Croatia in 2026 World Cup: A Fierce Duel Between Kane and Modric

England is set to face a significant challenge in their 2026 World Cup opener against Croatia at Dallas Stadium in Texas. The highly anticipated Group L match will be a battle of European powerhouses, with the spotlight firmly on the captains: England's Harry Kane and Croatia's Luka Modric.

Harry Kane will once again spearhead England's attack, supported by Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon, and Noni Madueke, as they aim to break down Croatia's defense. In midfield, Declan Rice will partner with Elliot Anderson to maintain balance for The Three Lions. Croatia, meanwhile, relies on the experience of Luka Modric to lead their midfield, accompanied by Mario Pasalic, Martin Baturina, and Petar Sucic. The attacking duties for Croatia fall to Ivan Perisic and Petar Musa.

The defensive lineups have also been confirmed. England's goal will be guarded by Jordan Pickford, with a back four consisting of Ezri Konsa, Nico O'Reilly, John Stones, and Reece James. For Croatia, Dominik Livakovic will be in goal, protected by Josip Stanisic, Josko Gvardiol, Josip Sutalo, and Luka Vuskovic.

The announced formations indicate England will likely play a 4-2-3-1, featuring Pickford; Konsa, O'Reilly, Stones, James; Rice, Anderson; Bellingham; Madueke, Kane, Gordon. Croatia is expected to line up in a 3-4-3 formation: Livakovic; Stanisic, Gvardiol, Sutalo, Vuskovic; Modric, Pasalic, Baturina, Sucic; Perisic, Musa.