England and Croatia held their pre-match press conferences at AT&T Stadium on Tuesday ahead of their Group L opener tomorrow, with Harry Kane, Thomas Tuchel, Luka Modrić and Zlatko Dalić all taking to the podium.
Kane arrived fresh off the back of the best individual season of his career, with more goals than any previous campaign, with a league and cup title to his name. “Physically and mentally the season ended well,” the England captain said, adding that the momentum from club level has carried directly into the international camp. “We need to prove tomorrow that we are capable of going far in this tournament.” Kane was also full of praise for his opposite number, describing Modrić as an outstanding professional and player whose ability to perform at the highest level for so long has been a source of inspiration.
Tuchel, meanwhile, sent a direct message to the England faithful back home. “I hope they enjoy our match and they could see and feel what I felt the last 16 days — the attitude from the whole team. I am very excited, I feel that we are ready to go.” The German coach was respectful in his assessment of Croatia, acknowledging the threat posed by Modrić and Kovačić as the heartbeat of their midfield, warning that Perišić remains dangerous out wide, and noting Croatia’s flexibility as something England must be prepared to adapt to. “We need a complex performance to be able to win. Croatia is a strong team and we are full of respect, but also full of confidence,” Tuchel said
For Modrić, the occasion carries particular weight, with this expected to be his last World Cup. “It’s hard to believe I am at my fifth World Cup. I was a kid with a big dream, and now I am close to my 200th cap with Croatia.” He spoke of his time in England and his four years at Tottenham that he described as hugely formative, and paid tribute to everyone who has been part of his journey on and off the pitch. “I am very happy that I am still representing Croatia. We all have a dream. My goal is the same as always — and knowing I am at the end of my career is even more motivation.”
Modrić was equally excited about Croatia’s younger generation, crediting players like Baturina and Sučić with bringing new energy and dynamics to the squad. “The young players are excellent with a bright future. They are already very important for Croatia, and they will only get better. I am not worried about Croatia’s future.”
Dalić did not reveal much tactically, though he confirmed Croatia have prepared specifically for set pieces and acknowledged the scale of the challenge ahead. “England is the toughest opponent we could get. We have three games in this group, and tomorrow will be a very tough game.”
Group L kicks off tomorrow at 3 pm local time at AT&T Stadium in Dallas.
