World Cup 2026: England aim to secure Group L top spot against Panama, Croatia face Ghana in must-win decider
England face Panama and Croatia take on Ghana in the final Group L matches of the 2026 World Cup, with knockout qualification and first place on the line.
The state of Group L
England and Ghana sit level on four points after two matches each, but England's superior goal difference keeps them at the top. Croatia, with three points, can still leapfrog both and win the group, while Panama have lost both their games and can no longer advance.
- England
- 4 pts
- Ghana
- 4 pts
- Croatia
- 3 pts
- Panama
- 0 pts
England's path
Thomas Tuchel's side opened with a 4-2 victory over Croatia, powered by a Harry Kane brace, then laboured to a 0-0 draw with Ghana. A win against Panama would guarantee first place and a potentially easier last-16 tie. A slip-up, combined with a win for Ghana or Croatia in the other match, could drop England to second or even third.
Panama have lost both group fixtures by the narrowest of margins, falling 1-0 in stoppage time to Ghana and then 1-0 to Croatia despite resolute defending. The Canaleros are already eliminated but will try to finish their tournament with a first point.
Croatia–Ghana: a direct shoot-out
Croatia must beat Ghana in Philadelphia to be certain of reaching the round of 16. After losing 4-2 to England, Luka Modrić and his team kept themselves in contention with a 1-0 win over Panama. A defeat would likely end their World Cup, leaving them to hope for a place among the best third-placed teams from twelve groups.
Ghana have been defensively stubborn, beating Panama 1-0 with a late goal and holding England to a 0-0 draw. Jordan Ayew and his teammates could top the group with a victory if England fail to beat Panama. A draw may suit both sides, depending on results elsewhere.
What comes next
The two matches kick off simultaneously at 23:00 CEST. England–Panama is set for the New York area, while Croatia–Ghana takes place in Philadelphia. The winners will advance, the losers will pack their bags, and the maths of third-place comparison will hover over every close scoreline.
