England are dreaming of reaching the 2026 World Cup final as they aim to top Group L. The Three Lions opened their campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia.
If England Win Group L
As group winners, England would face a third-placed team from Groups E, H, I, J, or K in the round of 32. The match is scheduled for July 1 in Atlanta at 12pm local time (5pm UK). Currently, the opponent would be DR Congo, but this remains subject to change.
A round of 32 victory would lead to a round of 16 match on July 5 in Mexico City at 6pm local time (1am UK, July 6). The likely opponent would be the winner of Group A, co-hosts Mexico, who have a perfect record after two games.
Quarter-Final and Beyond
Beating Mexico would set up a quarter-final in Miami on July 11 at 5pm local time (10pm UK). Brazil are a potential opponent if they win Group C. As it stands, Brazil would play Japan then the winner of Ivory Coast vs Norway in the round of 16.
If England progress, they would travel to Atlanta for a semi-final on July 15 at 3pm local time (8pm UK). They would face the winner of Group B, J, or K, meaning reigning champions Argentina may await. Portugal are another possible final-four rival.
If England Finish Second in Group L
Should England finish second, they would face the second-placed team from Group K (likely Portugal or Colombia) in the round of 32. This fixture is in Toronto on July 2 at 7pm local time (midnight UK).
A round of 32 victory would send England back to Arlington, Texas, for a round of 16 tie on July 5 at 2pm local time (8pm BST) against the winner of Spain's group (Group H) or the runner-up from Group J (Austria or Algeria).
Quarter-Final and Semi-Final
If England reach the quarter-finals as runners-up, they go to Los Angeles on July 10 at 12pm local time (8pm UK). There, they could face Belgium, Egypt, or co-hosts the United States.
A semi-final on this side of the bracket is also in Arlington on July 14 at 2pm local time (8pm UK). The winner of Group I (France or Norway) are possible opponents, as are England's famous old foes Germany.
The 2026 World Cup Final
Whether England finish first or second in Group L, the final takes place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19. Kick-off is at 3pm local time (8pm UK) as England eye their first trophy since 1966.
