Why Croatia vs England stadium could be ’75 per cent full’ for behind closed doors clash today

England's Nations League match against Croatia at Stadion HNK Rijeka could be up to 75 percent full despite a UEFA stadium ban. The disciplinary sanction stems from racist and discriminatory fan behavior during a March 2025 fixture against France. However, Article 73 of UEFA's disciplinary regulations provides a loophole allowing accompanied children aged 14 and under from schools and football academies to attend free of charge.

The Croatian Football Federation expects 5,500 to 6,000 children and guardians to attend the match in the 8,279-capacity venue. In addition, around 100 tickets were granted to the England Supporters Travel Club following representations by the Football Association. England manager Thomas Tuchel noted that playing behind closed doors creates a strange atmosphere but welcomed the presence of the children and traveling supporters.