**England's been absolutely ruthless in this head-to-head lately — 6 wins in their last 8 against Croatia, and they're bringing that swagger to the Adriatic.** 🔥 Both teams are matching form (3-2 in their last five), but the Three Lions have momentum and far fewer injury worries heading into Rijeka.

Croatia's holding steady at home with a crisp midfield anchored by **Modrić** and **Sučić**, but England's pressing game under **Rice** and **Anderson** should dominate possession. The key is whether **Kane** and **Saka** can capitalize on the spaces England typically carve out — they've looked sharp in attack lately.

Key storylines:

- **England's defensive depth** tested without Henderson, Stones, and Livramento — Konsa and Guéhi need a clean sheet
- **Modrić vs Rice** battle in midfield will shape tempo; whoever controls the ball controls the match
- **Kane's finishing** against a well-drilled Croatian back line; Budimir offers Croatia a physical foil up top

Expected lineups:

- **Croatia**: Livaković, Gvardiol, Šutalo, Vušković, Stanišić, Sučić, Modrić, Perišić, Baturina, Pašalić, Budimir
- **England**: Pickford, Spence, Guéhi, Konsa, James, Anderson, Rice, Gordon, Bellingham, Saka, Kane

Prediction:

**England 2-1 Croatia.** England's class and experience shine through, even with a shuffled back line. Slight favorite. ⚪

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