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FIFA World Cup Today: England Seek 2018 Revenge Against Croatia, Ghana Face Panama, Uzbekistan Make Historic Debut

  • By Thetripurapost Sports Desk, Toronto
  • Jun 17, 2026
  • 133

FIFA World Cup 2026 (mens) action continues on June 18 (IST) with three exciting matches, including a highly anticipated showdown between England and Croatia, a clash that revives memories of their dramatic 2018 World Cup semifinal encounter.

England vs Croatia: Three Lions Target Redemption

England will take on Croatia in a crucial Group L FIFA World Cup 2026 fixture at Dallas Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 1:30 AM IST. The match presents England with an opportunity to settle old scores after Croatia knocked them out of the 2018 World Cup with a 2-1 semifinal victory.

Historically, England have enjoyed the upper hand in this rivalry. Out of 11 international meetings between the two nations, England have won six matches, Croatia have secured three victories, while two games ended in draws.

England are expected to rely heavily on captain Harry Kane, midfield star Jude Bellingham, and explosive winger Bukayo Saka as they look to begin their campaign on a winning note.

Croatia, meanwhile, will place their trust in veteran captain Luka Modric and defensive leader Josko Gvardiol, who remain central figures in the team's plans.

Ghana vs Panama: Historic First-Ever International Meeting

Later in the day, Ghana and Panama will meet for the first time in international football history. The Group L contest will be played at Toronto Stadium, beginning at 4:30 AM IST.

With powerhouse teams England and Croatia also competing in the group, securing points from this encounter could prove decisive in the race for qualification to the knockout stage.

Ghana's hopes will rest on influential midfielder Mohammed Kudus and striker Inaki Williams, while Panama will depend on the creativity of Alberto Carrasquilla and the finishing ability of Jose Fajardo.

Uzbekistan vs Colombia: World Cup Debutants Face Tough Challenge

In another intriguing fixture, Uzbekistan will make their long-awaited FIFA World Cup debut when they face South American giants Colombia in a Group K match at Mexico City Stadium. The encounter is scheduled to start at 7:30 AM IST.

This will also mark the first-ever meeting between the two nations on the international stage.

Uzbekistan will look towards experienced captain Eldor Shomurodov and midfielder Otabek Shukurov to guide them through their historic first appearance at football's biggest tournament.

Colombia enter the match with significant experience and attacking quality, led by Liverpool winger Luis Diaz and veteran playmaker James Rodriguez, who won the Golden Boot at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Match Schedule (June 18 IST)

  • England vs Croatia – 1:30 AM IST – Dallas Stadium

  • Ghana vs Panama – 4:30 AM IST – Toronto Stadium

  • Uzbekistan vs Colombia – 7:30 AM IST – Mexico City Stadium

Football fans across the globe will be closely watching as former World Cup contenders, emerging nations, and tournament debutants battle for valuable points in the FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage.

 

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