England's path to the 2026 World Cup final has been confirmed after the group stage concluded in North America. Harry Kane's side topped Group L with seven points, defeating Croatia and Panama while drawing with Ghana. Their reward is a round of 32 clash against DR Congo in Atlanta on Tuesday, July 1 at 5pm UK time.
Round of 32: England vs DR Congo
England were initially projected to face Senegal, but overnight results locked in DR Congo as their opponent. The African side finished second in Group H, setting up a challenging encounter for the Three Lions.
Round of 16: Potential Mexico Showdown
If England advance past DR Congo, they will face the winner of the round of 32 match between Mexico and Ecuador. The match could take place in Mexico City, adding extra spice to a potential clash against the host nation.
Quarter-Finals: Brazil or Others Await
Victory in the round of 16 would secure a quarter-final berth. England's potential opponents narrow to four: five-time winners Brazil, Japan, Ivory Coast, or Norway. Brazil are considered the most formidable threat at this stage.
Semi-Finals: Argentina or Spain on Horizon
Should England reach the semi-finals, they could face Lionel Messi's Argentina, reigning champions after their 2022 triumph, or a host of other teams including Cape Verde, Australia, Egypt, Switzerland, Algeria, Colombia, or group-stage rivals Ghana.
The Final: Spain or France Loom
England are on the opposite half to Spain, making the reigning European champions—who beat England in the Euro 2024 final—the most daunting potential opponents in the final. However, England could alternatively face France, Portugal, Netherlands, or Germany in New Jersey on July 19.
Full Round of 32 Draw
- South Africa vs Canada
- Germany vs Paraguay
- Netherlands vs Morocco
- Brazil vs Japan
- France vs Sweden
- Ivory Coast vs Norway
- Mexico vs Ecuador
- England vs DR Congo
- USA vs Bosnia & Herzegovina
- Belgium vs Senegal
- Portugal vs Croatia
- Spain vs Austria
- Switzerland vs Algeria
- Argentina vs Cape Verde
- Colombia vs Ghana
- Australia vs Egypt
According to Charlie Malam, England must play an extra match at the World Cup after winning their group thanks to a FIFA decision. The revised schedule means the Three Lions face a tougher route to the final, with potential matches against top-tier nations.
