England enter the 2026 World Cup as genuine contenders after reaching the Euro 2024 Final. Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane and Phil Foden form one of Europe's most potent attacking combinations, and the squad depth is the best in the Three Lions' history. Serbia are a physical, disciplined side built around Dušan Vlahović up front and a dominant midfield.

England should be too strong for Serbia across 90 minutes, but tournament openers are notoriously tight as both teams are cautious. Serbia will make it uncomfortable in the first half, but England's quality should tell as the game opens up. A 2-0 or 2-1 England win is the most likely outcome. The short odds at 1.53 reflect England's quality but combine with an Over 1.5 goals bet to boost the value.