Croatia vs England - UEFA Nations League

Few would have predicted the narrative arc that brings Croatia and England together at the home ground on October 3, 2026, and the underdog storyline only adds to the UEFA Nations League occasion. The left-back was taken off in the final minutes against Everton with cramp, and was not risked for the Champions League clash vs Sabah on Thursday.

Form and standings can only tell part of the story when Croatia and England cross paths in the UEFA Nations League, and pride alone should guarantee a contest. Croatia's recent form is difficult to quantify, but the occasion itself should bring the best out of them. England's away form is hard to read, but they will arrive with the belief that they can trouble their hosts. Sky Sports columnist Laura Hunter analyses the big talking points from the first round of Women's Super League matches, bringing you closer to the key stories at the heart of the women's game.

Pressing intensity will define the contest. Croatia will seek to win the ball high up the pitch and suffocate England's build-up, while the visitors will aim to play through the pressure and exploit the spaces it leaves behind. Rico Lewis played at right-back, but when City were in possession he tucked infield and supported the midfield pairing of Mateo Kovacic and Reijnders.

Game-changers are scattered across both line-ups, and the contest may well be decided by which side's match-winners deliver on the day. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. TRONDHEIM, NORWAY - JULY 24: Ethan Williams of Manchester United celebrates scoring their fifth goal during the pre-season friendly match between Rosenborg and Manchester United at Lerkendal Stadion on July 24, 2026 in Trondheim, Norway.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. Expect a tight, competitive affair that could easily end all square at 1-1. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the UEFA Nations League picture. Fulham's Antonee Robinson could be one of those, who would likely be a cheaper alternative to Hall, who has just enjoyed a breakout season with the Magpies.