'Tough as it gets' as England set for another Croatia clash

ENGLAND have been drawn against Croatia, Ghana and Panama in Group L for next summer’s World Cup finals in North America.

- By JAMIE GARDNER

Scotland have been drawn against five-times world champions Brazil and 2022 semifinalists Morocco, as well as Haiti, in Group C.

The Republic of Ireland will be in Group A alongside co-hosts Mexico, South Korea and South Africa if they can come through the March playoffs.

Wales or Northern Ireland will head to Group B if they emerge victorious in the playoffs, alongside co-hosts Canada, Qatar and Switzerland.

England already knew before a single ball was drawn that they would benefit from a new Wimbledon-style seeding system introduced by FIFA, which will keep them apart from Spain and Argentina until the semis and from France until the final if all four countries win their respective groups.

Croatia are among the toughest opponents England could have expected and will be their opening match in Toronto or Dallas on June 17.