Vatreni · Group L
Croatia have punched well above their weight, finishing runners-up in 2018 and third in 2022. Inspired by veteran captain Luka Modrić and coached by Zlatko Dalić, the Vatreni are renowned for their midfield mastery. They remain serious knockout-stage threats.
Key squad members (selected). Full match-day squads update from the live feed.
England kicked off their World Cup campaign with a thrilling 4-2 victory against Croatia in Group L. Despite Croatia battling back to level terms, England’s attacking power proved decisive. The result sets an early tone in one of the tournament’s most competitive groups.
England opened their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L campaign with a dramatic 4-2 victory over Croatia. Thomas Tuchel’s side overcame multiple challenges in a frenetic encounter, setting the tone for a fiercely competitive group stage.
England secured a statement win in their Group L opener, overcoming Croatia 4-2 in a high-scoring contest. Thomas Tuchel's men showed attacking flair and resilience, setting the tone for a promising campaign.
The favourites dominate the headlines, but World Cups are often defined by the teams nobody expected. We look at four dark horses for 2026, Morocco, Croatia, Uruguay and Japan, and why each could go further than the bookmakers suggest.