England vs Croatia odds & preview
England begin their 2026 World Cup campaign with a heavyweight clash in Group L against Croatia on Wednesday, 17 June, with kick-off scheduled for 21:00 BST.
It’s a fixture loaded with recent World Cup history - with that dramatic semi-final in 2018 still fresh in the memory - and one that could immediately shape the direction of the group. England arrive with high expectations after strong performances at recent major tournaments, while Croatia once again bring proven tournament pedigree and a squad packed with international experience.
With both nations expected to challenge for qualification from Group L, victory here could provide crucial momentum heading into the rest of the group stage - and it's England who are tipped as favourites to get their World Cup off to the perfect start.
England vs Croatia betting markets
This World Cup opener offers plenty of betting opportunities, with markets available across everything from match outcomes and goals to player cards and in-play options.
England’s attacking depth and Croatia’s technical quality should create opportunities at both ends of the pitch, while the intensity of a major tournament opener could also bring disciplinary markets into focus.
Available betting markets include:
- Match betting
- Both teams to score
- Over/under goals
- Player to score anytime
- First goalscorer
- Player to be shown a card
- Correct score
- Bet builders
With so much individual quality on the pitch, there will be no shortage of angles to explore ahead of kick-off.
Could England start with a win against Croatia?
Opening matches can often define the mood of an entire World Cup campaign, and England will be aiming to begin Group L with a statement result.
Croatia have proven they can compete on the biggest stage over the last decade, but England’s blend of tournament experience, attacking quality, and squad depth makes them one of the standout contenders at this summer’s competition.
A strong performance here could immediately strengthen England’s outright World Cup credentials heading into the remaining group fixtures. Check out our in-depth England preview here in the build up to their opening World Cup match.
When is England vs Croatia at the 2026 World Cup?
England vs Croatia takes place on Wednesday, 17 June 2026, with kick-off at 21:00 BST.
The match is England’s opening fixture in Group L and one of the standout ties from the first round of games at the tournament. You can find the full 2026 World Cup fixture schedule here.
Explore more 2026 World Cup betting markets
- Outright World Cup winner odds
- Top goalscorer odds
- Golden Ball / Player of the Tournament odds
- Golden Glove Odds
- Winning confederation odds
- Odds to reach the final
- Stage of elimination odds
Be sure to check out the latest Ladbrokes promotions and offers throughout the World Cup, and always remember to gamble responsibly.