England will meet Croatia in the World Cup round of 16 on June 17 in Texas, United States [1] [2]. The England captain, 32-year-old Harry Kane, urged his teammates to “be free in the mind” and “go for it” as they aim to win the tournament [1] [2]. Kane, coming off another prolific season with Bayern Munich in Germany, called this “one of the best opportunities we will have as a team to win it” [1].
England are considered among the favourites to win the World Cup in North America after near misses at recent European Championships and previous World Cups [1] [2]. Head coach Thomas Tuchel expressed his ambition to bring the World Cup trophy to England, saying the team has shown a “brilliant effort and brilliant atmosphere” during preparation [1].
The squad was hit by a setback when defender Tino Livramento, 23, suffered a calf injury during training on June 14 at England’s Kansas City base. He was ruled out of the tournament on June 16 and replaced by Trevoh Chalobah [1] [2]. Tuchel called Livramento’s injury “a sad one” and said, “He was a key player and in good shape” but insisted the team was ready to proceed despite the loss [1].
England have a recent history with Croatia in the tournament, having lost to them in the 2018 World Cup semi-finals. England reached the quarter-finals in 2022 [1] [2]. Kane’s leadership and the unified team spirit are seen as crucial ingredients for England’s attempt to end their 60-year wait for a major international title [1] [2].