Croatia departs for World Cup base in United States

Croatia's national football team departed for the United States on Tuesday morning ahead of the FIFA World Cup, flying from Zagreb Airport to Washington, D.C.

The team will be based in Alexandria, Virginia, during the tournament. Croatia opens its Group L campaign against England on June 17 in Dallas, Texas.

Defender Martin Erlić said the squad is aware of the expectations that come with representing Croatia on the world stage.

"We're about to play in a major tournament. Croatia's fans have learned to expect a lot from us, and we're prepared to give everything for each other out on the field," Erlić told reporters before departure.

Croatia's group-stage matches will take place in Dallas, Toronto and Philadelphia. High temperatures and humidity could be a factor, particularly in Dallas.

Forward Petar Musa, who plays club football for FC Dallas, believes the team will have enough time to adapt to the conditions.

"Yes, it's going to be hot, but the good news is that it's an air-conditioned stadium, so I don't think it will be a problem," Musa said.

Alongside Croatia and England, Group L also includes Panama and Ghana.