England host Croatia at Wembley Stadium on Thursday, November 12, in a Nations League fixture that sees the Three Lions looking to maintain their group challenge while their visitors aim for a response following a 7-0 defeat last month.
A Match of Contrasting Fortunes
England enter the contest at Wembley following a run of form that has seen them recover from an opening 2-3 defeat against Spain with three consecutive victories. Under manager Thomas Tuchel, the team has accumulated nine points from a possible 12 in Group 3.
Home again next Thursday 🤍 England v Croatia 🔜 🏴 🇭🇷 pic.twitter.com/GHI0nCpOkM
No other coach in the history of England has reached 20 victories as quickly as Tuchel, who achieved the feat in 26 matches. Conversely, Croatia currently sit third in the group with three points, having conceded 14 goals across their four group matches.
Tuchel emphasized the need for focus ahead of the rematch. “For us, it’s important not to chase the same result, because the result was a consequence of our behaviour, so we need to not forget our behaviour and what we did offensively and defensively,” said Tuchel.
“We have to match the intensity and be stronger in the intensity than our opponent. We want to win the match to have a chance to win in Spain, and that’s where our focus is. We expect a reaction from Croatia and we expect to overcome this mental challenge for us to start from scratch.”
Harry Kane Sets New England Appearance Record
The fixture marks a personal milestone for England captain Harry Kane. Thursday’s match will see Kane move past Peter Shilton’s total of 125 caps to become England’s most-capped player of all time, reaching a milestone of 126 appearances. Kane has scored 13 goals for his country in 2026, putting him in contention to break his own calendar-year record of 16 set in 2021.
Tuchel confirmed that the team faces defensive adjustments. Marc Guéhi has withdrawn from the squad due to a hip injury sustained during a club match, and Ezri Konsa is also set to miss the encounter. Dan Burn and James Hill have been called up as cover.
“He will start as a captain and it is a big occasion to present the Ballon d’Or trophy to our fans and bring it to the country, and have it embedded in the same day where he gets his all-time record for 126 matches, it’s just a beautiful, beautiful occasion,” Tuchel added.
“It is on Harry to digest it as quickly as possible. There will be a lot of praise, a lot emotions before the kick-off – and then we need him in best shape to win the match for us.”
England Attacking Form Influences Betting Markets
England have demonstrated strong attacking form, averaging 3.5 goals per game in the Nations League. The Three Lions have scored two or more goals in each of their last five matches. Croatia, meanwhile, have struggled, losing three of their opening four fixtures. Betting markets reflect these trends, with England heavily favoured.
Market interest remains high for player-specific outcomes. Jude Bellingham, who scored in the 7-0 victory in Rijeka, remains a popular choice for betting builders involving goals or assists. Other players highlighted in market interest include Anthony Gordon, who has scored in four straight games, and Croatia’s Igor Matanovic, who has recorded over 1.5 shots in four consecutive matches.
Tickets Start at £35 for the Match
Tickets for the game can be purchased through England Football starting at £35, with standard adult prices set at £35, £45, £65, and £80, determined by the specific seat choice. A limited number of Level Two seats are priced at £95 and £120. Fans are advised that early booking is recommended as the opening home fixture against Spain sold out.
The match kicks off at 19:45 GMT and will be broadcast on ITV1 and ITVX, with radio coverage provided by BBC Radio 5 Live.