England's route to the World Cup final has become clearer, with Thomas Tuchel's side almost certainly needing to beat both Brazil and Argentina to reach the showpiece match if they overcome Mexico in the last-16. The two South American heavyweights are favourites to win their respective knockout ties, setting up a potential quarter-final against Brazil and a semi-final clash with the defending champions.
Brazil and Argentina advance
Brazil secured their place in the last-16 with a late goal against Japan, while Argentina needed extra time to overcome Cape Verde. Lionel Messi scored a stunning opener for Argentina, but Deroy Duarte equalised to force 30 additional minutes. Lisandro Martinez thought he had won it for Argentina, only for Sidny Cabral to find the top corner with a sensational strike. Cristian Romero eventually headed home the decisive goal midway through the second half of extra time.
Argentina will now face Egypt, who beat Australia on penalties, in the last-16. Brazil, under Carlo Ancelotti, will take on Norway, who beat Ivory Coast with a late goal. The winners of those ties will meet in the quarter-finals, with the victor facing either Switzerland or Colombia in the semi-finals.
England's potential path
If England beat Mexico, they will face the winner of Brazil vs Norway in the quarter-finals. Should they progress, a semi-final against Argentina (or Switzerland or Colombia) awaits. This is the worst-case scenario for Tuchel's side, as both South American giants represent formidable opposition.
Switzerland advanced with a comfortable 2-0 win over Algeria, while Colombia beat Ghana 1-0 thanks to an early goal from Jhon Arias. The winner of Switzerland vs Colombia will face Argentina or Egypt in the quarter-finals.
Other bracket matches
On the other side of the bracket, France take on Paraguay, Morocco face co-host Canada, Spain meet Portugal in a standout tie, and USA play Belgium. France are clear favourites to reach the final, with Argentina their most likely opponent until Cape Verde exposed some defensive frailties.
England would have preferred to see Cape Verde progress, as they would have given any opponent a competitive game. However, the Three Lions now face a daunting path to the final, with Brazil and Argentina standing in their way.
Kieran Horn, Digital Sports Journalist, reported this story.
