England secures a place in the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup before facing Panama
June 29, 2026 · Global
England have already booked their place in the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup and need a win against Panama to win Group L after a draw against Ghana.
England have secured a place in the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup before their final group game against Panama on Saturday. The Three Lions now top Group L with four points, which is enough to guarantee at least one of the eight qualifying spots for third. England only need third-placed teams in four of the 12 groups to finish with three points or less. This was achieved after Uruguay was eliminated from the tournament after losing 1-0 to Spain.
England come into the World Cup as one of the favorites to clinch the gold trophy after a superb qualifying campaign with eight wins from eight games without conceding a goal. Thomas Tuchel's side started well in North America, beating Croatia 4-2 at AT&T Stadium thanks to a brace from Harry Kane and goals from Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford. However, they stumbled again when matched by Ghana, who held them to a goalless draw in their second group game on Tuesday.
Despite their attacking riches, England failed to penetrate Ghana's low block and were ultimately forced to settle for a point. Although qualification for the last 32 is now guaranteed, they need a win against Panama to become champions of Group L. Panama has already been knocked out of the tournament and only has pride to bet against England.