England gears up for 2026 World Cup opener against Croatia

KANSAS CITY, MO — England is a worldwide brand, which was apparent when the three Lions took to the pitch for practice on Saturday, June 13.

England hosted a community event with a few hundred fans in attendance at the team’s base camp in Kansas City, Missouri.

As the players started to warm up, a young fan yelled from the sidelines: “Harry Kane, you’re better than Jude Bellingham.”

The team smiled and laughter rang around Sporting Kansas City’s development team facility. England then began preparing for its opening game of the 2026 World Cup against Croatia.

Photos reveal unforgettable World Cup action and emotion

Three Lions prepare for clash against Croatia

England has picked up wins over New Zealand and Costa Rica in the build-up to the World Cup. The 3-0 victory over Costa Rica was a big confidence boost for the Three Lions before things started, according to midfielder Nico O’Reilly.

“Hopefully, a good game, a positive game from us,” O’Reilly said. “Hopefully we can keep a clean sheet and score quite a few goals.”

It’s going to be a heavyweight clash between the two European sides. Defender Dan Burn shared that it’s going to be the most difficult game for England in the group stage. The star power of Croatia is evident with Luka Mordric and Josko Gvardiol.

“On paper, I think that’s the toughest game,” Burn said. “We know that they have done well in past tournaments. They have that golden generation of players. We are ready to stamp authority and lay down a bit of a mark for the World Cup.”

The two teams will meet in Group L action at 4 p.m. ET on on Wednesday, June 17, in Arlington, Texas.

Nico O’Reilly 'can't complain' about base camp

Training facilities and field conditions continue to be discussed across the World Cup. Prior to England’s friendly against New Zealand, manager Thomas Tuchel shared his concern about the pitch at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida.

On Saturday, England had no concerns about its base camp setup.

“The pitch has been amazing. It’s smooth, soft and, yeah, the pitch is good,” O’Reilly said. “Very good facilities, the gym is good, the changing rooms are nice. I can’t complain.”

Why England's Dan Burn is a 'glory hunter'

Burn opened by expressing his excitement for playing in America. He’s a massive NFL fan supporting the Pittsburgh Steelers.

“I’m a big fan of America and American sports,” Burn said. “I’m a Pittsburgh Steelers fan, but I am excited to be here in a new place that I’ve never been before.”

He shared that he became a Steelers fan when the team won the Super Bowl in 2008. The 34-year old smiled when speaking about his love of Pittsburgh.

“They won when I started watching,” Burn said. “Bit of a glory hunter.”

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: England players settle in for 2026 World Cup in Kansas City base camp