Being drawn in Group L of a 48-team tournament means England will not kick-off their World Cup until 17 June, six days after Mexico and South Africa kick-off the competition.
Thomas Tuchel will probably be glad of the extra time that gives his squad to recover from the domestic season ahead of what he will hope is a lengthy stay in North America given the extended number of teams competing and the addition of an extra knockout round to accomodate them.
Croatia provide the opening opposition, dangerous foes in the past but, like England a European nation who will have to adapt to the conditions.
Tuchel sounded a note of caution about the draw, which also paired England with Ghana and Panama, telling BBC Sport:
"Nobody should be underestimated. Of course Croatia is the standout nation but Ghana is always full of talent, can always surprise and has a big history in World Cup football.
"Panama will try to make the most of their underdog role. No-one can be underestimated, everyone deserves the fullest respect."
