England have one task left before the knockout rounds begin: make sure they top Group L. Thomas Tuchel’s side were outstanding in their opening victory over Croatia but found themselves frustrated by Ghana’s disciplined defending, meaning there is still work to do before thoughts can turn to the Round of 32. Panama, meanwhile, have already been eliminated, although they will be determined to avoid leaving the tournament without a point.

England searching for another attacking spark

England’s opening performance suggested they could be genuine contenders in North America. The movement of Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford caused Croatia constant problems, while Tuchel’s aggressive approach produced wave after wave of attacks.

That fluency disappeared against Ghana. The Three Lions dominated possession but struggled to create clear openings against one of the tournament’s most organised defensive displays. It was a useful reminder that England will not always be able to overwhelm opponents with tempo alone.

There is still no reason for concern, however. Four points from two matches have left qualification in England’s own hands, and finishing first would hand them a far more favourable route into the knockout rounds.

Expect Tuchel to demand a much sharper performance rather than simply settling for the point that would secure progression.

Panama playing for pride

Panama have competed well enough to suggest the scorelines have not told the full story. They pushed both Ghana and Croatia deep into their matches before eventually coming away empty-handed, and Thomas Christiansen’s side can feel unfortunate not to have collected at least one point. What has ultimately cost them is a lack of quality inside both penalty areas.

The Canal Men have defended with discipline for long periods, but they have rarely looked capable of turning promising situations into genuine scoring opportunities.

With elimination already confirmed, the pressure has disappeared. That could allow Panama to play with greater freedom, although abandoning their defensive structure against England would be a dangerous gamble.

Team news

England are expected to make changes at full-back after Reece James picked up a hamstring injury against Ghana. Djed Spence could switch across, allowing Nico O’Reilly to return to the starting XI. Declan Rice continues to be managed carefully, meaning Kobbie Mainoo is pushing for a start in midfield, while Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford will both hope to return after recent fitness concerns.

Panama remain without influential midfielder Adalberto Carrasquilla, whose recovery from an adductor problem suffered another setback. Veteran captain Anibal Godoy is available but is still lacking match sharpness after featuring only briefly during the tournament.

Verdict

England should encounter another compact defensive block, but Panama lack the counter-attacking threat that made Ghana so awkward to face.

The Three Lions have enough creativity to eventually wear down stubborn opponents, particularly if Tuchel freshens up his attack. Panama deserve credit for their effort throughout the tournament, yet this looks like a step too far against a side with plenty still riding on the outcome.

Tip: England to win.