Croatia to Open 2026 World Cup against England in Dallas

Croatian national team coach Davor Pašalić said the squad will rely on a compact defense and quick transitions in the tournament's first match against England at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on 17 June 2026. He noted the need for experience and youth to repeat past successes and highlighted the team's readiness after viewing the opening games of other groups.

English commentators on the Dressing Room Podcast described 18‑year‑old Liverpool defender Luka Vušković as "arrogant" and a natural leader, comparing him to former Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidić. The young Tottenham‑signed centre‑back is expected to play a key role in Croatia's opening fixture.

The match will be part of Group L, which also includes Ghana and Panama, and will set the tone for Croatia's campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.