World Cup 2026: Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic labels England as toughest opponent in Group L

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic believes their opening game against England is very important, labeling their European rivals as the toughest side in Group L. 

Dalic is leading the Vatrenis to a third World Cup, having finished second and third in his first two tournaments, and the stakes are high for the Eastern Europeans.

Croatia will also face Panama and Ghana in their other group matches, but Dalic is focused on the meeting with the Three Lions as he eyes a good start.

"We have a tough game ahead of us, the start of the World Cup, the toughest opponent. We did everything well, I would be happy if we showed it tomorrow," he said at the pre-match presser.

Despite labeling England as the toughest side, the 59-year-old insists the match will not be the decider in Group L.

"England is important, but it is not a decisive game. We know their quality, they are dangerous, especially on the flanks, we have one of the best strikers in the world. We will give our best, we will not just defend, we want more. And that is how we have been preparing," he added. 

Meanwhile, in the group's other game, Ghana will engage Panama in Toronto.