England and Croatia meet this afternoon at 3 p.m. at AT&T Stadium in Arlington in one of the most anticipated group stage matchups of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Group L opener pits two European powerhouses against each other in a rematch of their dramatic 2018 World Cup semifinal, which Croatia won in extra time on the way to the final. England arrives as one of the tournament favorites under manager Thomas Tuchel, boasting stars including Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice. Croatia, led by veteran midfielder Luka Modrić in what may be his final World Cup, brings experience and resilience as underdogs.
A sellout crowd of around 80,000 is expected at the massive venue, also known as Dallas Stadium, transforming North Texas into a vibrant international soccer hub. Thousands of fans from both nations have descended on the DFW area, packing hotels, restaurants and downtown Dallas with flags, chants and celebrations. Local businesses are seeing a major boost from the influx of visitors.
The match kicks off Group L play for both sides, who also face Panama and Ghana in the group. Referee Clément Turpin of France will officiate. Gates open hours early, with organizers urging fans to plan for heavy traffic and parking in Arlington.
This high-profile game highlights Dallas’s role as a key host city for the 2026 tournament, which spans the United States, Canada and Mexico. AT&T Stadium is scheduled for multiple matches, including later England games and a semifinal.
Fans can watch live on FOX in the U.S. The atmosphere promises to be electric as North Texas welcomes the world’s biggest soccer event.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
