Match Previews

A bright 2-0 win over Sweden handed England their first semifinal in a World Cup since 1990. First clean sheet of the competition. No major injury concerns.

England adopted a rather cautious attitude early on against Sweden, trying to find out how to pierce their opponents. Once they actually took the lead, they had the chance to give the opponents more headaches thanks to some rapid counter-attacks. Having managed to avoid an equaliser, they scored again after the break. They risked something defensively once again but succeeded avoiding conceding.

After being decisive against Colombia, Pickford made 3 fundamental saves also against Sweden. Maguire broke the deadlock, turning the match on the right direction. Sterling played rather well but missed another great scoring chance. Kane, the top scorer of the competition, looked tired and this might be something to worry about for coach Southgate.

At last, England obtained their first clean sheet of the World Cup, displaying some defensive improvements. They will have to beat Croatia in order to achieve their first final since the home triumph back in 1966.

Pickford injured a finger against Sweden but he does not represent an issue for the semifinal.

Maguire, Lingard, Henderson, Walker and Loftus-Cheek all picked up yellow cards but any second yellow card handed in the semifinal will not be considered for the final.

Henderson and Vardy dealt with some knocks but they resumed regular training with the group. Dier, or Delph, could represent an alternative to the former among the starters.

Rose could be given some playing time later on in the second half as Young's replacement.

England have already faced Croatia 7 times: they won 4, drew once and lost twice, scoring 18 goals and conceding 10. They won both last 2 games played, the 2010 World Cup qualifiers. This is the first time they meet at this level, though. The two sides will be playing again in October and November in the new UEFA Nations League.