England vs. Croatia Projected Starting 11: Starting Lineups For Three Lions & The Vatreni

The 2026 FIFA World Cup continues with a highly anticipated Group L clash as England take on Croatia in a matchup featuring two European nations with a history of memorable international encounters.

England enter the tournament among the favorites to contend for the title thanks to a squad loaded with talent across every position. Croatia, meanwhile, continue to rely on a blend of experienced veterans and emerging stars as they look to make another deep run on football’s biggest stage.

With both sides eager to begin their group-stage campaign with a victory, this contest could prove crucial in shaping the race to advance from Group L.

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England Starting Lineup

England are expected to deploy a balanced lineup featuring a strong defensive core, dynamic midfield options, and one of the world’s most prolific strikers.

Jordan Pickford is projected to start in goal behind a back four consisting of Reece James, Ezri Konsa, John Stones, and Nico O’Reilly. Stones brings leadership and composure to the back line, while James offers attacking quality from the right flank.

In midfield, Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson are expected to operate in deeper roles. Rice will provide defensive stability and ball-winning ability, while Anderson’s energy and work rate should help England maintain control in central areas.

Further forward, Noni Madueke and Anthony Gordon are projected to provide pace and creativity from the wings, while Jude Bellingham is expected to occupy the central attacking midfield role. Bellingham’s ability to influence matches in both attacking and defensive phases makes him one of England’s most important players.

Leading the line is captain Harry Kane. The veteran striker remains England’s primary goal-scoring threat thanks to his elite finishing ability, movement, and experience in major tournaments.

• GK: Jordan Pickford
• RB: Reece James
• CB: Ezri Konsa
• CB: John Stones
• LB: Nico O’Reilly
• DM: Elliot Anderson
• DM: Declan Rice
• RW: Noni Madueke
• AM: Jude Bellingham
• LW: Anthony Gordon
• ST: Harry Kane

Croatia Starting Lineup

Croatia are expected to line up in a flexible system built around midfield quality and veteran leadership.

Dominik Livaković is projected to start in goal behind a defense featuring Joško Gvardiol, Josip Šutalo, and Luka Vušković. Josip Stanišić and Ivan Perišić are expected to operate in wide roles, providing defensive support while also contributing in attack.

The Croatian midfield remains anchored by Luka Modrić and Mateo Kovačić, one of the most experienced partnerships in international football. Their composure on the ball and ability to dictate possession will be central to Croatia’s game plan.

Further forward, Martin Baturina and Petar Sučić are projected to support striker Petar Musa. Baturina’s creativity and Sučić’s versatility could provide Croatia with the attacking spark needed to break down England’s defense.

• GK: Dominik Livaković
• CB: Joško Gvardiol
• CB: Josip Šutalo
• CB: Luka Vušković
• RM: Josip Stanišić
• CM: Mateo Kovačić
• CM: Luka Modrić
• LM: Ivan Perišić
• AM: Martin Baturina
• AM: Petar Sučić
• ST: Petar Musa

Team News & Key Absences

England enter the tournament with one of the deepest squads in the competition. Kane remains the focal point of the attack, while Bellingham, Rice, Stones, and James provide quality and experience throughout the lineup.

Croatia continue to rely on the leadership of Modrić, Kovačić, and Perišić, while Gvardiol anchors a defense capable of competing against elite opposition. Emerging talents such as Baturina, Sučić, and Vušković will also have opportunities to make an impact on the world stage.

Both nations are expected to have the majority of their preferred starters available, giving fans the opportunity to see two strong lineups go head-to-head.

Match Outlook & Resources

England enter the contest as slight favorites thanks to their depth, attacking firepower, and overall squad quality. Kane remains one of the most reliable goal scorers in international football, while Bellingham’s ability to influence every area of the pitch gives England a significant advantage.

Croatia, however, have repeatedly proven capable of competing with the world’s best teams. The experience of Modrić and Kovačić in midfield, combined with Gvardiol’s defensive presence and Perišić’s attacking quality, gives Croatia the tools to challenge England throughout the match.

With both teams targeting three valuable points in their opening Group L fixture, expect a competitive and tactically fascinating battle between two nations with ambitions of advancing deep into the tournament.

AP Images/John Raoux