England's World Cup campaign finally gets underway as they take on a familiar foe in Croatia in their Group L opener. Thomas Tuchel's side will look to lay down a marker at this tournament in what is arguably England's hardest match of the group stage.
The German tactician has several selection dilemmas to weigh up, but appears poised to give Jude Bellingham the start over Morgan Rogers in the No10 position. The fitness of Bukayo Saka remains uncertain, with Arsenal teammate Noni Madueke ready to step in as cover, while the makeup of England's centre-back partnership is also up for speculation.
Live Coverage
Metro's LIVE matchday blog will bring you all the build-up, confirmed team news and starting XIs, goal updates and minute-by-minute coverage.
Don't Miss a World Cup Moment
Lionel Messi's hat-trick. Cape Verde's heroics. Those Scottish fans. It's been a memorable World Cup so far – our daily newsletter helps you make the most of it. Sign up.
Live Feed
June 17, 2026 7:02 pm
What time does England vs Croatia kick off?
Ben Fleming
England's first game of the tournament will kick off at 9pm BST tonight.
June 17, 2026 6:31 pm
Good evening!
Ben Fleming
Hello and welcome to Metro's live coverage of England's World Cup opener between England and Croatia. Stay with us for all the build-up, team news and match updates from Dallas, Texas.
Arrow MORE: Football fans can get a free Greggs coffee with this O2 Priority deal
Arrow MORE: Meet the new glamorous set of WAGs supporting England at World Cup 2026
Arrow MORE: England's possible routes to the World Cup final with dates and kick-off times
In The Mixer's World Cup special
Everything you need to know about the World Cup – England updates, the games to watch and stories you missed – in five minutes, at 1pm, every day.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Your information will be used in line with our Privacy Policy
