The rematch the whole country has been waiting for
England vs Croatia at a World Cup. Again. The 2018 semi-final still stings. Extra time. Perisic. Mandzukic. The walk back to the dressing room. Four years later they drew 0–0 at Qatar 2022. Now they meet for a third consecutive World Cup in the group stage of a 48-team tournament.
For English fans, this is the game that defines the group stage. Win it, and the path to the knockouts opens up. Lose it, and suddenly Ghana and Panama become pressure fixtures.
England — can they finally deliver?
The England 2026 kit by Nike is a clean white shirt with navy accents. It is as classic as England kits get. The squad is packed with Premier League quality — but England have underperformed at every tournament since 1966 relative to squad value.
The question is not whether England have the players. It is whether the tactical setup will finally match the talent. Every English fan watching this group stage will be asking that question by halftime of the Croatia game.
Croatia — perennial tournament overachievers
Croatia finished third at Qatar 2022. Runners-up in 2018. Semi-finalists more often than not. A country of 4 million people that consistently produces world-class midfielders. The Croatia chequered shirt is one of the most recognisable in football.
Even without Modric at peak powers, Croatia’s system produces. They are the most dangerous second seed in the tournament.
Ghana — African flair and World Cup pedigree
Ghana reached the quarter-finals in 2010 and had a squad-of-the-tournament contender in 2006. The Ghana 2026 kit is a bold black-and-gold Puma design that stands out from the crowd. They have the pace and technical ability to beat anyone on their day.
Panama — back for more
Panama qualified for their second World Cup and bring a passionate travelling support. They will make life difficult for everyone in this group without being favourites against anyone.
Prediction
1st: England. 2nd: Croatia. But a Ghana upset is never far away.
Check the full Group L page for fixtures and BST kick-off times, or read the England vs Croatia head-to-head.