Croatia vs England prediction 03.10.2026 | UEFA Nations League

Croatia return to Rijeka after a comprehensive 4:1 defeat against Spain in Seville on Tuesday.

Dion Beljo briefly levelled the contest following Lamine Yamal’s early opener, but Slaven Bilic’s side were unable to contain the world champions. Yamal completed his brace in the second half, while Marc Pubill and Nico Williams also scored in an impressive performance from the World Champions.

The defeat provided a reality check for Bilic following a 2:1 victory against Czechia in his first match since returning to the Croatian hot seat.

Luka Modric and Marco Pasalic scored in Prague as Bilic made a winning start to his second spell as national team head coach.

The inconsistent Croats have now won five and lost five of ten games played in 2026. 

Defensive issues remain a concern. The Vatreni conceded six goals across their two previous meetings with England and were repeatedly exposed in Tuesday’s defeat against a formidable Spain side.

The hosts will be without their usually raucous home support this weekend, with Saturday’s fixture set to be played in an almost empty stadium due to a UEFA sanction against Croatia. 

Only 100 travelling England supporters have been permitted to attend.

Head coach Bilic could make changes after Tuesday's demanding defeat against Spain. Andrej Kramaric, Ante Budimir and Lovro Majer among those pushing for recalls.

England make the trip to Rijeka after securing a comfortable 2:0 victory against ten-man Czechia on Tuesday.

Pavel Sulc was sent off after just 25 minutes and, although the Czechs held firm until half-time, Anthony Gordon headed England in front after the interval before Harry Kane secured the points for the Three Lions.

That result provided a positive response to England's dramatic 3:2 home defeat against Spain in their opening Nations League fixture last weekend. 

Despite that setback, Thomas Tuchel’s side have been in solid form in the last year, winning nine and losing just two of 12 international fixtures. 

Tuchel is likely to make some changes to his selection on Saturday.  Jude Bellingham could return to the first XI after starting on the bench against Czechia. 

Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze are also competing for recalls, while Kane should continue to lead the attack.

Jordan Pickford will replace James Trafford after Tuchel confirmed the Everton keeper would play England’s next two fixtures.