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England vs Croatia: Henderson Hails Bellingham as X-Factor

6/15/2026

Summary

Henderson Praises Bellingham

England will face Croatia on Wednesday in the 2026 World Cup, and captain Jordan Henderson says Jude Bellingham will be an X-factor.
Henderson calls Bellingham a “big-game player”, praises his maturity in guiding younger teammates, and says his place is uncertain as he competes with Morgan Rogers for No 10, though both will have roles.
Croatia defender Duje Caleta-Car praised England captain Harry Kane’s movement and positioning despite Kane not scoring.

Summary

Henderson Defends Bellingham

England’s opening World Cup match against Croatia is scheduled for 21:00 BST on Wednesday.
Jordan Henderson, 35, has appeared in seven major international tournaments for England.
Jude Bellingham arrives with 48 senior caps and will play in his third major tournament after calling himself a “scapegoat” in the squad.
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Summary

Henderson Sets Record

Jordan Henderson became the first English player ever selected for seven major international tournaments.
England will meet Ghana, Panama and Croatia in Group L, with the opening match against Croatia in Dallas on Wednesday.
Thomas Tuchel kept the 36-year-old Henderson, which led to the omission of younger midfielders Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, Morgan Gibbs-White and Adam Wharton.

History

Historical Context

England’s 1990 World Cup run, guided by manager Sir Bobby Robson and captain Bryan Robson, reached the semi-finals after winning Group F with a 22-player squad. That reliance on veteran leaders resurfaces as Jordan Henderson earns a record seventh major tournament, joining seasoned figures like Gary Lineker from the 1990 side.

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Henderson Praises Bellingham

England will face Croatia on Wednesday in the 2026 World Cup, and captain Jordan Henderson says Jude Bellingham will be an X-factor.
Henderson calls Bellingham a “big-game player”, praises his maturity in guiding younger teammates, and says his place is uncertain as he competes with Morgan Rogers for No 10, though both will have roles.
Croatia defender Duje Caleta-Car praised England captain Harry Kane’s movement and positioning despite Kane not scoring.

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