England vs Croatia: Unfinished Business
The 2018 World Cup semifinal in Moscow haunts English football. England led through Kieran Trippier's free kick, dreams of a first Final since 1966 tantalizingly close. Then Croatia happened. Ivan Perišić equalized, and Mario Mandžukić's extra-time winner sent England home heartbroken.
Now, at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, these rivals meet again in the group stage. The stakes are different but the intensity will match any knockout game. Both teams need a strong start in Group L, and neither will want to lose this psychological battle.
Bellingham vs Modrić: Past Meets Future
The narrative writes itself. Jude Bellingham, 22, Real Madrid's midfield maestro and England's talisman, faces Luka Modrić, 40, perhaps the greatest midfielder of his generation in his final World Cup. They share a dressing room at the Bernabéu; here, they're rivals seeking to lead their nations to glory.
Modrić was the heartbeat of Croatia's 2018 miracle run and their 2022 third-place finish. At 40, this is almost certainly his World Cup farewell tour. But anyone who watched him dominate Argentina in the 2022 semifinal knows age hasn't diminished his magic. His passing range, composure, and ability to control games remain elite.
England's Golden Generation
Thomas Tuchel's England enters 2026 with perhaps their strongest squad ever. Bellingham leads a midfield that includes Declan Rice and Phil Foden. Bukayo Saka and Harry Kane provide firepower. This generation has reached two Euro finals and a World Cup semifinal - now they demand silverware.
Croatia's Final Dance
For Modrić, Perišić, and Croatia's golden generation, 2026 represents their last chance at World Cup glory. Reaching the 2018 Final as a nation of 4 million people was remarkable; finishing third in 2022 confirmed their elite status. Young stars like Joško Gvardiol (Manchester City) ensure the transition, but the old guard wants one more unforgettable tournament.
Jerry World Hosts Football's Biggest Stage
AT&T Stadium, affectionately known as "Jerry World," provides a spectacular setting. The 93,000-seat venue features the world's largest video screen and a retractable roof. For this blockbuster opener, expect a crowd split between passionate Three Lions supporters and Croatia's famous checkered faithful.