England vs Croatia: The key battles in the World Cup semi-final

England face Croatia for a place in the 2018 World Cup final on Wednesday evening

England face Croatia for a place in the 2018 World Cup final on Wednesday evening.

Gareth Southgate's side have seen off Colombia and Sweden to reach the last four while Croatia have gone the distance against both Denmark and Russia to get here. It's the biggest game in a generation for both with a spot in Sunday's showpiece on the line.

With some of the tournament's form players squaring off it promises to be an entertaining contest. But where will the game be won and lost? Let's take a look at the key battles from St Petersburg.

Dejan Lovren vs Harry Kane

Croatia's defence is considered their weak link with neither Lovren nor centre-back partner Domagoj Vida boasting great pace. Lovren, who has struggled against Kane in the Premier League in the past, faces a tough challenge to contain England's prime striker. Kane is the tournament's top scorer so far with six goals.

Ivan Rakitic vs Jordan Henderson

Further up the field, Croatia are blessed with a number of talented ball-playing midfielders. Rakitic is among the finest in the game, although he has played more of a withdrawn role in this tournament while Modric has attacked. Henderson, the preferred anchor in Gareth Southgate's side, will attempt to negate his impact.

Rakitic has been Croatia's shootout hero twice (AFP/Getty Images)

Luka Modric vs Dele Alli

Real Madrid playmaker Modric has excelled at times in Russia, both on the ball and in terms of his leadership qualities. His exact role can be variable - he could spray passes from midfield or be pushed forward to operate in support of main striker Mario Mandzukic. Alli has his own attacking inclinations but there could be onus on him to drop back to prevent Modric taking a firm grip.

Modric has been at his best in Russia (EPA)

Mario Mandzukic vs Harry Maguire

Mandzukic is Croatia's chief threat in front of goal and has operated both as a lone striker and as one of a pair, with Andrej Kramaric, in this tournament. His prime attributes are his strength and aerial power and England will want Maguire, their strongest defender in the air, up against him as the crosses come in.