England have kicked off their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign against Croatia, with manager Gareth Southgate fielding a starting eleven that places Jude Bellingham at the heart of midfield alongside Declan Rice.

Harry Kane leads the attack as captain, while Noni Madueke and Anthony Gordon provide width on either flank. Jordan Pickford starts in goal, with a defensive line of Reece James, John Stones, Ezri Konsa, and Nathan O'Reilly.

England's starting lineup

Pickford anchors a back four built for both security and forward movement. Rice and Bellingham form a central midfield partnership that carries significant creative and defensive responsibility, with Eberechi Eze named as Anderson in the squad list offering an additional dynamic in the engine room.

Kane, who continues to be England's primary source of goals at major tournaments, starts as the lone striker. Gordon and Madueke are tasked with stretching Croatia's defensive shape from wide positions.

Croatia's lineup

Croatia line up with veteran playmaker Luka Modrić wearing the number 10 shirt, as the 39-year-old looks to inspire his side one more time on the world stage. Joško Gvardiol anchors the defence, with Josip Šutalo and Luka Vušković also named in the back line.

Ivan Perišić, another experienced figure, starts in a wide role, while Mario Pašalić and Petar Sučić offer support through the middle. Dominik Livaković takes his place between the posts.

Martin Baturina and Petar Musa provide additional attacking options among the Croatia substitutes, giving coach Zlatko Dalić flexibility as the match develops.

Both sides have significant World Cup pedigree — England and Croatia famously met in the 2018 World Cup semi-final, with Croatia claiming a famous extra-time victory on that occasion. This fixture marks a new chapter in that rivalry.