England’s group win sets a mystery opponent in World Cup last‑32

England clinched the top position in Group L after a 2‑0 victory over Panama on Saturday, guaranteeing a World Cup last‑32 tie. Goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane lifted the Three Lions to seven points, ahead of Croatia’s six. England began the tournament with a 4‑2 win against Croatia, establishing early momentum. A goalless draw with Ghana on Tuesday followed, leaving the team unbeaten after two matches. The Panama match provided the decisive second‑half breakthrough, with Bellingham opening the scoring before Kane added a second. The win secured England’s seven‑point tally and confirmed their group‑leading status.

England’s slow awakening: Bellingham and Kane unlock Panama in second half

Croatia secured the second automatic place by defeating Ghana 2‑1, positioning them to face the winners of Group K. Thomas Tuchel’s side now await the identity of their last‑32 opponent, scheduled for Wednesday at 17:00 BST. With Ghana confirmed as the third‑placed team in Group L, England’s only potential opponents are the third‑placed side from Group K or Senegal. A DR Congo victory over Uzbekistan would likely set up a clash with DR Congo, unless a seven‑goal swing sees Portugal take the spot, in which case England would meet Portugal; otherwise Senegal awaits.

England top Group L as Bellingham dazzles, Tuchel's defence questioned

Tuchel defended his full‑back selection after James sustained an injury, emphasizing squad depth ahead of the knockout stage. The pathway now leads England to a last‑16 meeting with the winner of Mexico versus Ecuador in Mexico City on 5 July, and a possible quarter‑final in Miami on 11 July against Brazil, Japan, Ivory Coast or Norway.