England are on course to avoid the more difficult side of the World Cup 2026 knockout bracket, with progression almost secured after taking four points from six against Croatia and Ghana. Victory over Panama in their final Group L fixture this weekend should confirm top spot and a kind first knockout game.
Group L Winners Path
If England win Group L, they will face the third-placed team from Groups E, H, I, J, or K in Atlanta on July 1. Currently, that opponent is tournament debutants Cape Verde, who have drawn with Spain and Uruguay. A last-16 clash could see England meet Mexico or Scotland, followed by a potential quarter-final against Brazil and a semi-final against Argentina. The final could be against France, ending 60 years of hurt.
Group L Runners-Up Path
Finishing second would move England into the other half of the bracket, facing Group K runners-up in Toronto. That team is currently Portugal but could be Colombia. A last-16 showdown against Spain in Dallas could follow, then a quarter-final against co-hosts USA, a semi-final against France, and a final against Argentina.
Third-Place Path
As one of the best third-placed teams, England would face the winners of Group K (Colombia or Portugal) in Kansas City on July 3. A last-16 game against co-hosts Canada could lead to a quarter-final with holders Argentina, a semi-final with Brazil, and a final against Spain in New York City.
According to FIFA seeding, England cannot meet Argentina before the semi-finals or Spain or France before the final if all top their groups. Thomas Tuchel's side aims to reach just their second-ever World Cup final.
