Group stage complete

England won Group L with seven points from three matches. It was not always convincing, but Thomas Tuchel’s side did enough to finish ahead of Croatia, Ghana, and Panama.

Now the knockout rounds begin, and England know exactly what stands between them and a third major tournament final of the decade.

Last 32: DR Congo (1 July)

England face DR Congo in Atlanta. The Leopards finished third in Group K after drawing with Portugal, losing to Colombia, and beating Uzbekistan.

They are ranked 46th in the world and conceded only three goals in the group stage. Their squad includes Premier League experience with Newcastle’s Yoane Wissa, West Ham’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Burnley’s Axel Tuanzebe, and Sunderland’s Arthur Masuaku.

This is DR Congo’s first time competing in the knockout stages of a World Cup.

Last 16: Mexico potential (6 July)

If England progress, they could face co-hosts Mexico in Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca. Mexico won all three group-stage matches and have not lost a competitive fixture since November 2024.

The Azteca sits more than 7,000 feet above sea level, which could cause shortness of breath and fatigue for players not used to altitude.

Alternatively, Ecuador could be the opponent. They finished third in Group E and have not conceded more than one goal in any match for over two years.

Quarter-final: Brazil or Japan (11 July)

Five-time winners Brazil are in England’s section of the draw. Vinicius Jr. topped Group C but were unconvincing in their only real test, drawing 1-1 with Morocco.

Japan looked strong technically and tactically, finishing second behind the Netherlands. They have not lost in their past 16 matches, including a 1-0 friendly win over England at Wembley in March.

Ivory Coast or Norway are also possible opponents. Norway, with Erling Haaland, are in their first World Cup since 1998.

Semi-final: Argentina possible (15 July)

Defending champions Argentina could await in the semi-final. Lionel Messi scored five goals in the group stage as Argentina won all three matches.

Colombia, who topped their group ahead of Portugal, are also in this section of the draw.

The final (19 July)

The final takes place in New Jersey in front of 82,500 fans. England cannot face France, Germany, or Spain before the final — all three are in the opposite half of the draw.

France and Germany could meet in the last 16, while Spain could face Portugal. The final could feature any of the tournament’s strongest sides.