Confirmed Lineups
Thomas Tuchel has revealed his first England starting XI of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Jude Bellingham given the nod in the number 10 role for the Group D opener against Croatia at Dallas Stadium. The Three Lions manager is without the injured Bukayo Saka, while Tino Livramento has left the squad entirely, replaced by Trevoh Chalobah.
England starting XI (4-2-3-1): Pickford; James, Stones, Konsa, O'Reilly; Rice, Anderson; Madueke, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane.
"Jude Bellingham gets the nod at No10 for England. Anthony Gordon and Noni Madueke are on the flanks," notes the Guardian's Ed Aarons.
Croatia's lineup is yet to be confirmed officially, but veteran captain Luka Modric is expected to start alongside three other Serie A stars, as per reports from Italy. The 2018 runners-up are aiming to spoil England's revenge mission after that infamous semi-final defeat six years ago.
Key Players to Watch
All eyes will be on Jude Bellingham, who inherits the creative mantle in the absence of Saka. The Real Madrid maestro has enjoyed a stellar season and enters the tournament as one of the favorites for the Golden Ball. Captain Harry Kane leads the line, seeking to add to his record England goal tally. For Croatia, Luka Modric remains the heartbeat of the side, pulling the strings in what is almost certainly his final World Cup appearance.
Match Context and How to Watch
The Group D clash kicks off at 3pm local time (4pm EDT, 9pm BST, 6am AEST) at the 70,000-capacity Dallas Stadium, where temperatures are expected to exceed 33°C but the roof will be closed and air conditioning in operation. The match is available via official rights holders in all territories; UK viewers can follow live coverage on BBC and ITV, while U. S. audiences can watch on Fox Sports. Streaming options are available through each broadcaster's dedicated app.
Key Takeaways
- Bellingham starts as No10: The Real Madrid star is trusted to unlock Croatia's defence in a pivotal playmaking role.
- Injury woes for England: Bukayo Saka misses out, and Tino Livramento is replaced; defensive reshuffle sees Stones and Konsa paired.
- Modric's last dance? The 40-year-old icon aims to guide Croatia to another deep run in his final World Cup.
- Revenge on the menu: England seeks to avenge their 2018 semi-final elimination at the hands of Croatia.
- Kick-off details: The game starts at 9pm BST in air-conditioned comfort at Dallas Stadium.
Quick Facts
Match: England vs Croatia, FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D
Venue: Dallas Stadium, Arlington
Kick-off: 9pm BST / 4pm EDT / 6am AEST (Jun 18)
England formation: 4-2-3-1
Key absences: Bukayo Saka (England), Tino Livramento (England)
