England vs Croatia predictions: Where Euros opener will be won and lost today

England finally kick off their Euro 2020 campaign this afternoon, facing Croatia in a revenge job three years on from their World Cup semi-final showdown.

Here’s how the Group C fixture will be won and lost...

Stopping Modric

England need no reminding of the dangers of giving Luka Modric too much space, after he ran them ragged in that 2018 defeat in Russia.

But Gareth Southgate has a new-look midfield with the energy and aggression of Mason Mount and Declan Rice to try to silence the Real Madrid maestro this time around.

BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images

Back three or four?

Southgate has tried out a back four in recent internationals to, at least, make that an option. But, historically, it has been a three-man central defence that has proved most effective for England, from the World Cups in 1990 to 2018.

Without Harry Maguire, it could be the best way to tighten up at the back.

Getty Images

Game-changer Grealish

Aside from Maguire, Jack Grealish has dominated debate ahead of England's opener. Will he start? And if he does, where will he play?

It was fascinating to see him used in a deeper role against Romania, allowing Southgate to pack his team with attacking quality.

Given his displays in an England shirt, he has every chance to make the XI, no matter what the position.

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