World Cup 2026: England’s Road to the Trophy Is About to Get Complicated

England completed the World Cup 2026 group stage unbeaten, defeating Panama 2–0 to finish top of Group L with seven points. Winning the section secured a favourable entry into the expanded knockout phase—but not an easy route through it.

Thomas Tuchel’s side begin against DR Congo, yet the bracket could subsequently send them through Mexico City, Miami and Atlanta before a possible final in New Jersey. Several major football nations stand between England and the trophy.