World Cup group stage concludes: England eyes top spot, Portugal faces Colombia

The final day of group-stage matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on Saturday evening Italian time, with six fixtures across Groups J, K, and L set to determine the full bracket for the round of 32.

Group L: Three teams fight for two spots

England and Ghana are level on four points, while Croatia trails with three and Panama has zero. England faces eliminated Panama at Meadowlands Stadium in New Jersey. A win would practically guarantee first place for Thomas Tuchel's side.

The simultaneous match between Croatia and Ghana at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia carries high tension, but also the possibility of a result that suits both. A draw would send Croatia and Ghana to the knockout stage, depending on England's result, and both would also likely rank among the best third-place finishers even if one loses.

The smell of a 'biscotto' is back: with one point, both would go through to the next phase.

Group K: Colombia vs. Portugal for first place

Colombia, with maximum points from two matches, has already qualified, as has Portugal in second place. Their meeting at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami at 1:30 am Italian time decides who tops the group. Cristiano Ronaldo, after a goalless debut and a brace in the second match, looks to maintain momentum.

At the same time, DR Congo faces Uzbekistan at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Congo can reach the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time with a victory. Uzbekistan has already been eliminated.

Group J: Argentina rests, others scramble

Argentina, the defending champion, has already secured first place with six points. Lionel Messi, with five goals so far, may be rested for the match against already-eliminated Jordan at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. The earlier fixture between Algeria and Austria could see both nations advance with a draw, making the 4:00 am kick-off a cautious affair.

How to watch

Italian state broadcaster Rai will show Croatia vs. Ghana live on Rai 1 starting at 23:00, with pre-match coverage from 22:30. All six matches are available on DAZN in Italy and on other platforms internationally.