Now at AC Milan after a glittering spell with Real Madrid, Modric will once again lead Croatia against an England side it famously defeated in the 2018 World Cup semifinals. | Photo Credit: AP

Croatia captain Luka Modric said he was determined to savour every moment of what is expected to be his final FIFA World Cup as his side prepares to face England in its Group L opener in Texas on Wednesday.

The 40-year-old midfielder, set to earn his 200th international cap, said being surrounded by a new generation of Croatian players had left him feeling “rejuvenated”.

“Every game, every tournament is special at 40 with the national team,” Modric said. “My aim is to do my best, but also to enjoy every match and every training session with these guys.”

Now at AC Milan after a glittering spell with Real Madrid, Modric will once again lead Croatia against an England side it famously defeated in the 2018 World Cup semifinals.

Croatia enters the tournament without much hype despite cruising through qualification. Alongside veterans Ivan Perisic and Mateo Kovacic, the squad also features promising 19-year-old defender Luka Vuskovic, who is expected to start against England.

“There are a lot of young players, so I feel rejuvenated with them,” Modric said.

Coach Zlatko Dalic acknowledged England’s attacking threat, led by captain Harry Kane.

“They have the best strikers in the world. Kane can do a lot, a hell of a lot,” Dalic said, adding that Croatia had also prepared for England’s strength from set-pieces under manager Thomas Tuchel.

Ghana and Panama are the other teams in Group L.

Published on Jun 17, 2026