Luka Modric looks ahead to his fifth FIFA World Cup with Croatia ahead of facing England in their opening game.

Croatia will wrap up its FIFA World Cup 2026 preparations with a friendly against Slovenia before flying to the United States. MORE: 2026 FIFA World Cup: USA national team games, locations revealed How to Watch Croatia vs Slovenia World

JUDE Bellingham duly delivers at the World Cup — as he plays cricket with his England team-mates. Bellingham had a bowl while goalkeeper Pickford looked defensively solid — a good sign ahead of

Based on rankings and recent form, England are clear group favourites to easily navigate the group stage and contend for a deep run in the 2026 World Cup. Croatia are contenders for second position, while Panama face an uphill battle to take points off the two European heavyweights but can pull a surprise or two.

The 2026 World Cup is upon us so it's time to look at the 48 participants – with Group L featuring an England side now under the stewardship of German coach Thomas Tuchel.EnglandManager: Thomas Tuchel.

Live coverage of the England vs. Croatia Fifa World Cup game on ESPN, including live score, highlights and updated stats.

Croatia substitute Mario Pasalic grabbed a stoppage-time winner to edge neighbours Slovenia 2-1 in their friendly international on Sunday ​and head to the World Cup on a winning ‌note.

The FIFA World Cup doesn't begin until later this week, but excitement is already building in Alexandria as Croatia's national soccer team settles into its temporary home in Northern Virginia.