England - Croatia Predictions

England begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a clash against what is, on paper, their toughest opponent in the group – Croatia. The two sides know each other well, and fans still remember their encounters at major international tournaments over the past decade. At EURO 2020, the Three Lions secured a 1-0 victory over the Blazers, but both teams find themselves in a somewhat different position today. England have entered the prime years of a talented generation, while Croatia are gradually transitioning toward a younger squad. What are the best betting options for this matchup?

• In their last 10 matches, England have conceded only two goals
• Croatia have not kept a clean sheet in any of their last six games
• The match will be officiated by French referee Clément Turpin

England - Croatia Predictions

Alongside Spain and France, England are widely considered one of the leading contenders to lift the World Cup trophy in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The Three Lions boast tremendous attacking quality, driven by explosive wingers and the ever-reliable Harry Kane, who remains the focal point of the team's offense despite his extensive experience at the highest level.

Our pick: Most corners – England

England are expected to dominate possession and spend long stretches of the game in Croatia’s half. If that scenario unfolds, it should naturally result in more corner kicks for the Three Lions. Croatia are likely to rely on their organization and experience, but they could struggle to contain England’s pace and width in attacking areas. Betting on a higher total number of corners in the match is also worth considering, especially if the game opens up early.

England vs Croatia Betting Odds

Although England and Croatia are separated by only a handful of places in the FIFA rankings, bookmakers see the Three Lions as clear favorites. Odds on an England victory are generally around 1.70. A draw is typically priced between 3.60 and 3.80, while a Croatia win can be backed at odds of up to 5.10. You should also check odds on the total number of goals as well.

Predicted Lineups

England will be without Tino Livramento for the opening match against Croatia. The Newcastle defender is sidelined through injury, with Trevor Chalobah expected to take his place. Croatia, meanwhile, are likely to field a blend of experience and youth. Luka Modrić, Ivan Perišić, and Andrej Kramarić remain key figures, but younger players, like Gvardiol, or Stanisic are gradually taking on larger responsibilities within the squad.

• England: Pickford – James, Stones, Guehi, O'Reilly – Rice, Mainoo, Saka, Bellingham, Gordon – Kane
• Croatia: Livaković – Šutalo, Vušković, Gvardiol – Stanišić, Kovačić, Modrić, Perišić – Kramarić, Sučić – Budimir

Recent Results

England's preparation for the World Cup has been somewhat mixed. Their most surprising result was a 1-0 home defeat to Japan at Wembley. However, they bounced back with victories over New Zealand and Costa Rica, keeping clean sheets in both matches.

Croatia have also experienced an inconsistent run of form. They suffered defeats against Belgium and Brazil but showed resilience in a victory over Colombia. Their narrow 2-1 win against Slovenia did little to eliminate concerns about the team's readiness heading into the tournament.

England – Recent Matches

10.06.2026 – England vs Costa Rica 3:0 (Friendly)
06.06.2026 – England vs New Zealand 1:0 (Friendly)
31.03.2026 – England vs Japan 0:1 (Friendly)
27.03.2026 – England vs Uruguay 1:1 (Friendly)
16.11.2025 – Albania vs England 0:2 (World Cup Qualifiers)

Croatia – Recent Matches

07.06.2026 – Croatia vs Slovenia 2:1 (Friendly)
02.06.2026 – Croatia vs Belgium 0:2 (Friendly)
01.04.2026 – Brazil vs Croatia 3:1 (Friendly)
27.03.2026 – Colombia vs Croatia 1:2 (Friendly)
17.11.2025 – Montenegro vs Croatia 2:3 (World Cup Qualifiers)

England vs Croatia at the FIFA World Cup

Matches between European heavyweights have long been among the highlights of World Cup tournaments, and this encounter is no exception. England enter the game under greater pressure, largely because they are regarded as one of the tournament favorites. Croatia, however, have repeatedly proven that they thrive on the biggest stages and often exceed expectations. One of the most fascinating battles will take place in midfield. Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice are set to face Luka Modrić and Mateo Kovačić, a partnership that remains among the most experienced in international football. Another player likely to attract attention is Anthony Gordon. The winger, who recently joined FC Barcelona, is expected to play a key role in England’s attacking plans.

Broadcast Information

The England vs Croatia match will be broadcast live on TVP 1 and TVP Sport. Online coverage will also be available free of charge via the sport.tvp.pl website. Kick-off is scheduled for Wednesday, June 17, 3:00 PM ET (USA) / 9:00 PM CET (Europe). French referee Clément Turpin has been appointed to officiate the match.