Familiar Foes Clash in Group L Opener in Dallas
England and Croatia reignite one of international football's most persistent modern rivalries as they begin their World Cup campaigns in Texas.
England enter the tournament as one of the favourites, seeking to maintain momentum after a preparation period that included a 3-0 victory over Costa Rica and a 1-0 win against New Zealand. This marks their eighth successive World Cup appearance, their longest such streak since the 1994 tournament held in the United States.
Croatia, led by Zlatko Dalic, arrive with a reputation for deep tournament runs despite a patchy build-up. Recent results have been mixed, including a 2-1 win over Slovenia and a 2-0 defeat to Belgium. Having finished third in Qatar four years ago, they are aiming to overcome a history of slow starts, having won only one of their last five World Cup opening fixtures.
Goals scored and conceded.
Per-game averages at this tournament — updates as the games are played.
Both teams across every game at this tournament.
EnglandCroatia
Every tournament game combined — England 8 games, Croatia 4 games.
EnglandCroatiaPast meetings.
Their recent form.
The road to the final.
Twelve groups into a 32-team knockout · 72 of 72 group games played · fills in as every result lands.
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