England vs Croatia prediction: teams form analysis, possible lineups on June 17, 2026
In the 1st round of the World Cup on June 17, 2026, the national teams of England and Croatia will face off. Both teams are determined to start the tournament successfully.
England vs Croatia: Team News and Expert Analysis
Under Tuchel, England showed a perfect record in the qualifiers. However, in March friendlies they only managed a draw against Uruguay and suffered a loss to Japan. By summer, though, they secured clean-sheet victories over New Zealand and Costa Rica.
Croatia performed poorly at the Euros but then won their qualifying group, collecting 22 points from eight matches. In friendlies, after a narrow win over Colombia, they lost to both Brazil and Belgium. At least they managed a 2-1 victory over Slovenia.
Kane and company average 2.4 goals scored per game, conceding just 0.2. Zlatko Dalić’s men trail slightly behind: 1.9 goals scored and one conceded per match.
Previous Matches: England vs Croatia
There have been ten head-to-head encounters in total. After losing twice, the English have won six times, including both of the most recent meetings.
It is unlikely this match will be a high-scoring spectacle, as both teams are known for their pragmatic style. Still, Kane and company seem prepared to grind out a result—something like a 1-0 win—so we trust in their victory (odds – 1.75).
England vs Croatia: Key Statistics and Trends
- England have won two matches in a row
- 10% of England's matches end with goals from both teams and the average total goals per match is 2.6
- Croatia have lost two of their last three matches
- 50% of Croatia's matches end with goals from both teams and the average total goals per match is 2.9
England vs Croatia: Probable Starting Line-ups
England play with a 1-4-2-3-1 formation (probable line-up): Pickford – Spence, Guehi, Stones, Quansah – Rice, Henderson – Rashford, Rodgers, Watkins – Kane
Croatia also use a 1-4-2-3-1 formation (probable line-up): Livaković – Gvardiol, Pongračić, Erlić, Stanišić – Kovačić, Modrić – Perišić, Kramarić, Pašalić – Budimir
Place your bet on the upcoming match and follow the team's performance in the World Cup standings
