Croatia and England meet on Saturday, 3 October 2026, in the third round of their Nations League group campaign, with both sides expected to name experienced attacking line-ups.
Croatia manager Slaven Bilic is likely to combine established players with emerging talent. Luka Modric, who is 41, is expected to retain his place in midfield alongside Mateo Kovacic.
The Croatian defence could feature Josko Gvardiol alongside the young Luka Vuskovic, while Ivan Perisic is set to provide versatility on the left. Igor Matanovic is tipped to lead the attack, reflecting Bilic’s willingness to give an opportunity to the next generation.
Croatia’s probable XI
Goalkeeper: Dominik Livakovic
Defenders: Ivan Perisic, Josko Gvardiol, Luka Vuskovic, Josip Stanisic
Defensive midfielders: Mateo Kovacic, Luka Modric
Attacking midfielders: Franjo Ivanovic, Petar Sucic, Luka Sucic
Striker: Igor Matanovic
England are also expected to maintain a balanced side for the fixture. James Trafford is likely to start in goal after keeping a clean sheet against the Czech Republic.
Trevoh Chalobah could partner Marc Guehi in central defence, with Lewis Hall and Trent Alexander-Arnold completing the expected back four.
In midfield, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Elliot Anderson are forecast to bring mobility and physical presence, with Morgan Rogers also included in the projected line-up.
Harry Kane is expected to lead the England attack as the central striker. He could be supported from the flanks by Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon.
England’s probable XI
Goalkeeper: James Trafford
Defenders: Lewis Hall, Marc Guehi, Trevoh Chalobah, Trent Alexander-Arnold
Midfielders: Morgan Rogers, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Elliot Anderson
Attackers: Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka
The match is Croatia’s third fixture in the Nations League group stage and will see them face an England side featuring Kane, Saka and Gordon in attack.
According to the published betting prices from 1xbet, Croatia are rated at 3.70 to win, a draw is priced at 3.60, while England are 1.72 to claim victory.
