Thomas Tuchel has lost the chance to fully rotate his England side against Panama after the goalless draw with Ghana, meaning key decisions loom for the World Cup Group L clash. Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford are pushing for starting spots as England seek a win to secure top spot in the group.
Wide options open up
Anthony Gordon and Noni Madueke have started on the left and right respectively in both of England's first two matches, but changes are likely out wide. Marcus Rashford came off the bench to score against Croatia and could earn a start, while Bukayo Saka has made an impact as a substitute in both games after being managed carefully by medical staff following an Achilles injury suffered in spring that saw him miss seven Arsenal games.
Tuchel said after the Croatia game that the team was working towards the Panama match for Saka to play a full 90 minutes. His first start of the tournament could arrive at the MetLife Stadium.
Midfield and defensive decisions
In midfield, Jordan Henderson, Kobbie Mainoo, and Morgan Rogers are options to come in, but Tuchel may stick with Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, and Declan Rice for a game England now need to win. Rice was seen wearing strapping around his left calf as he left the stadium, but fitness fears have been allayed.
John Stones was replaced by Marc Guehi for the Ghana game, and while England defended nervously at times, they kept their first clean sheet. At left-back, Nico O'Reilly and Djed Spence have each started one game and both came off the bench in the match they did not start.
Predicted lineup and match details
England predicted XI vs Panama (4-2-3-1): Pickford; James, Konsa, Guehi, O'Reilly; Anderson, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Rashford; Kane.
Unavailable: None.
Time and date: 10pm BST on Saturday June 27, 2026.
Venue: New York/New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium), East Rutherford, New Jersey.
