England head into their final Group L match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with top spot in sight as they take on Panama on 28 June 2026 at 5:00 AM (Malaysia Time). The match will be played at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford.
While England are in a strong position to finish first in the group, Panama still have a narrow path to the knockout stage, making this an important contest for both sides.
England Looking to Finish on Top
England’s qualification hopes are already in good shape, but finishing as Group L winners remains the main objective. The Three Lions can secure first place if they defeat Panama and the result between Ghana and Croatia goes in their favour, with Ghana winning without a large goal margin.
A victory would allow England to enter the knockout stage with confidence after an impressive group-stage campaign.
Panama, meanwhile, are still mathematically in contention. However, they will need a positive result against England while also relying on Croatia to lose to Ghana. Although the odds are against them, Panama will be hoping for one final opportunity to extend their World Cup journey.
Team News
England have been dealt a defensive setback after Reece James picked up an injury during the match against Ghana. The right-back was forced off the pitch and is expected to miss several games.
With James unavailable, Djed Spence is the leading candidate to start at right-back. There is better news elsewhere for England, with Declan Rice fully fit and available for selection. Wingers Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford are also expected to feature as England look to finish the group stage on a high.
Panama continue to face injury concerns ahead of their biggest match of the tournament. Midfielder Adalberto Carrasquilla remains sidelined with an adductor muscle injury after suffering a setback during his recovery before the defeat to Croatia.
Captain Aníbal Godoy, Panama’s all-time appearance leader, has also struggled with fitness throughout the competition and has managed only a brief appearance so far.
Predicted Lineups
Panama (4-5-1): Mosquera; Murillo, Córdoba, Ramos, Andrade, Blackman; Martínez, Bárcenas, Harvey, Rodríguez; Fajardo.
England (4-2-3-1): Pickford; Spence, Guéhi, Konsa, O’Reilly; Mainoo, Anderson; Madueke, Bellingham, Rashford; Kane.
Score Prediction
England have looked more balanced and clinical throughout the group stage, while Panama have struggled with injuries and consistency. The Three Lions are expected to control possession, create more scoring opportunities, and have enough quality to secure all three points.
Prediction: Panama 0-2 England
England’s superior squad depth and attacking talent should prove decisive, although Panama are likely to battle hard as they chase a result that could keep their World Cup hopes alive.
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