England face Croatia test as qualifiers continue

By Martyn Herman

LONDON (Reuters) - England will aim to put an end to their Croatia jinx on Wednesday when the sides continue their rivalry in Zagreb with World Cup qualifying points at stake.

The Group Six clash stands out on busy night of action that includes European champions Spain's Group Five tie against Armenia and world champions Italy at home to Georgia.

Russia begin their campaign in Group Four at home to Wales in Moscow while the Netherlands face a tricky trip to Macedonia in Bert van Marwijk's first competitive match in charge.

England's new coach Fabio Capello got his first competitive victory on Saturday in a drab 2-0 win against Andorra in Barcelona but things are about heat up for the experienced Italian charged with restoring England's flagging fortunes.

Croatia, who won their Group Six opener 3-0 against Kazakhstan on Saturday, beat England home and away to qualify for Euro 2008 and in so doing ended the dour reign of former England coach Steve McClaren.

The 2-0 defeat in October 2006 seemed to sum up England's malaise during the McClaren era -- a comical own goal from experienced defender Gary Neville after an air kick from goalkeeper Paul Robinson a bitter memory.

Another loss would cast further gloom across a national side struggling to repair battered reputations.

VERY STRONG