England are through to the last-32 of the 2026 World Cup after securing top spot in Group L – and will face African side DR Congo in the knockout stages.
After a first half of frustration against Panama in New Jersey, second-half goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane secured England’s second win of the tournament with a 2-0 victory.
It means Thomas Tuchel’s side will move on to Atlanta for their next match, as their route to the final became clear on Saturday night.
See below for details of England’s knockout route.
When will England play next?
After topping Group L, England will face a best-ranked third-place team on Wednesday, 1 July at 5pm (BST) in Atlanta.
Who will England face in the round of 32?
England’s win, alongside Croatia beating Ghana, confirmed top spot in Group L.
And after DR Congo beat Uzbekistan to finish third in Group K, England will take on DR Congo in their last-32 match.
It will be the first-ever meeting between the two sides.
What is England’s route to the final?
In the last-16, England could face Group A winners Mexico (or Ecuador) in the high-altitude cauldron of the Estadio Azteca on the evening of Sunday 5 July at 1am (BST).
If they overcame that serious test of resolve, Group C winners Brazil could be their quarter-final opponent on Saturday, 11 July.
Argentina, following a fine start with Lionel Messi’s five goals, may then be their potential semi-final opposition on Wednesday, 15 July. France would be the likely opponents in the final in New Jersey on Sunday, 19 July.
