Jude Bellingham clicks alongside Kane at last. He should start in England’s World Cup opener | Jacob Steinberg

As England prepares for its World Cup opener against Croatia, the integration of Jude Bellingham into the starting lineup alongside Harry Kane is pivotal. This pairing could significantly enhance England's attacking dynamics, particularly given their strengths in right-side dominance through Bukayo Saka. The 4-3-3 formation under Thomas Tuchel emphasizes structured build-up and organized pressing, which aligns well with Bellingham's skill set. His ability to connect with Kane could provide the creative spark England has sometimes lacked, especially when under pressure from opponents. This development is crucial not just for the match but for England's aspirations in the tournament as a whole. Bellingham's emergence as a key player reflects a broader tactical evolution for England, moving away from the previous reliance on individual brilliance to a more cohesive team approach. This shift could redefine how England competes in the tournament, making them a more formidable opponent as they aim for their second World Cup title.

In Group L, England faces a challenging start against Croatia, a team known for its tactical discipline and counter-attacking prowess. The match on June 17 is critical for both teams, as securing points early can set the tone for the remainder of the group stage. England's strengths, particularly their attacking capabilities through the right channel, will be tested against Croatia's organized defense. Given England's recent form, with 26 wins out of their last 39 matches, they will look to leverage their attacking structure to dominate the game. However, their vulnerabilities, particularly in midfield creativity under pressure, could be exploited by Croatia. The outcome of this match will have significant implications for both teams' qualification scenarios in the tournament.

Historically, England has a mixed record in World Cups, with one title and 16 appearances. The pressure to perform is immense, especially given the expectations surrounding this talented squad. England's previous campaigns have often been marred by tactical inconsistencies and an inability to break down well-organized defenses, which is a concern as they prepare to face Croatia. The historical precedent suggests that a strong start is crucial for England's confidence and momentum in the tournament. Past experiences have shown that teams that fail to secure early points often struggle to advance, making this match against Croatia not just a test of skill but also a psychological hurdle for the players.

Following their opener against Croatia, England will need to quickly assess their performance and adapt their strategies for subsequent matches in the group stage. The tactical flexibility that Tuchel has instilled in the team will be vital as they face varying styles of play from their opponents. If Bellingham and Kane can establish a strong partnership, it could lead to a more dynamic attack that can exploit the weaknesses of future opponents. As the tournament progresses, the pressure will mount, and England's ability to navigate their vulnerabilities while maximizing their strengths will determine their success. The upcoming fixtures will be critical in shaping their path through the knockout stages, making every match a high-stakes affair.