Group L: England's New Era Under Tuchel
England enter a new era under Thomas Tuchel, with Jude Bellingham as the team's heartbeat and a squad packed with attacking talent. But Group L features a fascinating narrative — Croatia, with Modrić's final World Cup, the team that broke English hearts in 2018. Ghana bring explosive pace and the memory of 2010's quarter-final heartbreak. Panama return more experienced. The England-Croatia rematch will be one of the group stage's most anticipated matches.
England
Rank #11 · UEFA
Best: Champions (1966)
★ Jude Bellingham
Croatia
Rank #19 · UEFA
Best: Runners-up (2018)
★ Luka Modrić
Ghana
Rank #49 · CAF
Best: Quarter-finals (2010)
★ Mohammed Kudus
Panama
Rank #71 · CONCACAF
Best: Group Stage (2018)
★ Adolfo Machado
Rank #11 · Coach: Thomas Tuchel
Bellingham, Kane, and Tuchel's tactical sophistication make England the group's strongest team. But the Three Lions' tournament mentality will be tested.
Rank #19 · Coach: Zlatko Dalić
Never count out Modrić's Croatia. Their tournament know-how, midfield quality, and ability to win knockout-style matches make them dangerous.
Match to Watch
England vs Croatia — The 2018 semi-final rematch. Modrić's final chapter vs Bellingham's coronation. Tuchel's tactical battle with Dalić.
Prediction
England win the group but Croatia take points off them. Croatia advance as runners-up. Ghana's youthful energy earns a memorable victory. Panama compete.