England faces tough Group L test at 2026 World Cup

England enter the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the bookmakers' third favourite. They have been drawn in Group L with Croatia, Ghana and Panama. Group L matches run from 17 June to 27 June, starting with England versus Croatia in Dallas.

Thomas Tuchel's side will aim to reach the knockout stage despite a limited World Cup record. England's only World Cup triumph came on home soil in 1966. The team has never won the European Championship and has never progressed beyond the quarter-finals in the Americas.

Croatia, despite being overlooked, finished second and third in the last two World Cups. Luka Modric remains a veteran playmaker capable of controlling the midfield. Croatia defeated England in the 2018 semi‑final and have pressed England hard in three subsequent meetings.

Ghana have qualified for five of the last six tournaments since 2006. Otto Addo was dismissed 78 days before the tournament and Carlos Queiroz took over on 13 April. Ghana's squad includes Thomas Partey, Antoine Semenyo and Inaki Williams.

Panama are targeting a stronger second World Cup appearance. Thomas Christiansen aims to beat Ghana in their opening game. Panama rely on a compact defensive shape and a genuine set‑piece threat.