England's thrilling 4-2 victory over Croatia has put them in prime position to top Group L at the 2026 World Cup. A win against Ghana on Tuesday would secure their place in the round of 32 and likely first place, handing Thomas Tuchel's side a more straightforward route through the early knockout stages. Express Sport examines a dream route to the final should everything fall perfectly into place.
Last 32 (Atlanta, July 1)
Should England top Group L, they will face the third-place finisher from Groups E, H, I, J or K in Atlanta on July 1. Assuming Germany, Spain, Argentina and Portugal progress as top two sides, possible opponents include Saudi Arabia, Austria, Algeria and DR Congo. More challenging potential opponents include Norway, Uruguay and Colombia. Dream opponent: Saudi Arabia.
Last 16 (Mexico City, July 6)
England would then play in Mexico City on July 6, with the most probable opposition being co-hosts Mexico, who appear poised to top Group A. However, should Mexico stumble, England could face a third-place finisher from Groups C, E, F, H or I, potentially Scotland, Japan or Sweden. Dream opponent: Scotland.
Quarter-finals (Miami, July 11)
This round could bring Brazil as opponents in Miami on July 11, but that scenario only materialises if Brazil secure top spot in their group. Potentially less daunting opponents include Japan, Sweden, Ecuador, Ivory Coast and Norway. Dream opponent: Sweden, who were thumped 5-1 by the Netherlands on Saturday.
Semi-finals (Atlanta, July 15)
Argentina and Portugal emerge as England's likeliest opponents if both win their groups. England would likely favour a meeting with Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal. Uruguay and the United States are also potential opponents. Dream opponent: Uruguay.
Final (New Jersey, July 19)
England will avoid Spain and France until the final, assuming all three top their groups, with Spain and France set to meet in the semi-finals. Other possible finalists include Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium. Dream opponent: Belgium.
