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England play Croatia in a European qualifier in Rijeka, with Jordan Pickford winning his 92nd cap and Luka Modrić earning his 203rd. The top two qualify for the quarter-finals.
England face Croatia in a European qualifier in Rijeka today, with Jordan Pickford reclaiming his spot in goal for his 92nd cap and Luka Modrić earning his 203rd cap for Croatia. The match is part of a qualifying group where the top two teams will advance to the quarter-finals next March. Spain host Czechia later this evening in the same group.
England Look to Build on Czechia Win
England come into the game after a comfortable 2-0 win in Czechia. Manager Gareth Southgate has handed Alex Scott his first international start. Pickford returns in goal after being rested. England are allowed 100 fans inside the 8,200-seat stadium. Uefa rules allow an exception for children up to age 14 from the local Rijeka area, with up to 6,000 plus guardians expected. The stadium should be around two-thirds full.
England’s midfield will need to cope with Croatia’s experienced core. Luka Modrić, Ivan Perišić and Mateo Kovačić have a combined 480 caps. Andrej Kramarić, if he plays, will win his 120th cap. Croatia’s lineup includes Livaković, Stanišić, Vušković, Gvardiol, Perišić, Modrić, Kovačić, Ivanović, Petar Sučić, Baturina and Musa.
Modrić Reaches 203 Caps for Croatia
Luka Modrić will earn his 203rd cap, further extending his record as Croatia’s most capped player. The 39-year-old remains a unifying figure for his country’s fans. Other veteran players like Edin Džeko, Robert Lewandowski and John McGinn are also nearing the end of their international careers. Modrić’s longevity and leadership have been key for Croatia.
Ivan Perišić will win his 159th cap and Mateo Kovačić his 118th. Andrej Kramarić could make his 120th appearance. Croatia’s experience contrasts with England’s relatively younger squad. Jordan Pickford will win his 92nd cap, while Bukayo Saka is set to make his 58th. England’s starting XI includes Pickford, with Alex Scott making his first start.
Qualification Stakes and Fan Experience
The top two teams in the group will qualify for the quarter-finals next March. England are aiming to secure a strong position with a win. Croatia, with their experienced lineup, will be tough opponents. The match is expected to be competitive, with both teams aware of the importance of the result.
Fans in Rijeka have described the away end as a unique experience. The cage-like enclosure offers a stunning view over the city, reached by a trek up hills and many steps. Police escort away fans, confiscate lighters, and then leave them in the cage. A nearby shop sells cheap beer. Despite the odd setup, many away fans consider it a fantastic away day.
England’s previous match in Czechia ended 2-0, with goals from Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka. The win put England in a strong position in the group. Croatia also won their previous qualifier. The two teams last met in the 2018 World Cup semi-final, where Croatia won 2-1 after extra time. England will be seeking revenge.
Uefa’s rule allowing local children up to age 14 to attend for free has helped fill the stadium. The 8,200-seat capacity will be around two-thirds full, with 6,000 children and guardians plus 100 England fans. The atmosphere is expected to be lively but friendly. Both teams will be looking to put on a show for the young audience.
England Croatia Luka Modrić Jordan Pickford Rijeka UEFA European Qualifiers
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