England begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign on Wednesday, 17 June, with Thomas Tuchel’s men arriving in North America hoping to end a six-decade wait for a second world title.

The Three Lions have been among the most consistent teams in the last 10 years, reaching the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and back-to-back Euro finals – all of them coming during Gareth Southgate’s reign as manager.

LIVE | England vs Croatia, FIFA World Cup Group L clash in Dallas

A major trophy, however, continues to elude them despite the immense talent in their ranks, and Tuchel and his men will be hoping to finally add another piece of silverware to their cabinet later this summer.

Here’s everything you need to know about England’s World Cup opener on Wednesday:

England opponent today

England will face Croatia in the first match of the 2026 World Cup for both teams. Like England, Croatia have also been among the more consistent teams over the past decade, finishing runners-up at the 2018 edition of the World Cup where they lost to France in the final and third in the 2022 edition in Qatar.

England team news today

Harry Kane and Jordan Pickford pick themselves as striker and goalkeeper respectively, and there’s little debate with regards to their positions. Both key players are fully fit and are looking forward to the tournament-opening clash against Croatia. As for other spots, the No 10 spot is likely to go to Jude Bellingham while Anthony Gordon as the edge over Marcus Rashford for the left wing. On the other side of the pitch, Bukayo Saka is likely to start if fully fit.

England predicted starting XI today

Jordan Pickford, Reece James, Marc Guéhi, John Stones, Nico O’Reilly, Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane.

When and where is England’s first match of World Cup 2026?

England take on Croatia in their opening Group L match on Wednesday, June 17 at the Dallas Stadium in Dallas. The match starts at 1:30 am IST (Thursday, 18 June).

Where to Watch England vs Croatia match live in India?

England vs Croatia, World Cup 2026 Group L match and the entire FIFA World Cup 2026 will be broadcast live in India by ZEE Sports Network on Unite8 Sports channels. Live streaming of the match will be available on the ZEE5 app and website.