Bellingham named in England's starting XI for World Cup opener vs Croatia 2026

England will start their World Cup campaign in Dallas with Jude Bellingham leading their attack as the number 10.

Starting role confirmed Jude Bellingham is poised to take the field in England's primary playmaking position for their opening World Cup clash against Croatia. Earlier discussions suggested uncertainty over who would occupy the central attacking role, with Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers also considered. However, indications point to Bellingham, aged 22, being chosen by England's head coach Thomas Tuchel for Wednesday's Group L match in Dallas, kicking off at 21:00 BST. The Real Madrid player is expected to be joined in midfield by Declan Rice of Arsenal and Elliot Anderson, who plays for Nottingham Forest. ## Team selection details The composition of England's starting lineup has been finalized with Bellingham lined up to dictate play from the number 10 berth. The team's midfield trio is expected to feature Rice, a key figure at Arsenal, alongside Anderson, who has impressed at Nottingham Forest. Croatia await England in what promises to be a tightly contested Group L opener. The match is scheduled for Wednesday evening in Dallas. ## World Cup preparations England's squad has been preparing for their World Cup debut in Group L, with Bellingham expected to lead the line. The decision to start Bellingham follows scrutiny over who would fill the advanced midfield position. The group stage opener against Croatia marks the beginning of England's campaign in the 2026 tournament. Kickoff is set for 21:00 BST in Dallas.