England are closing in on their opening match at FIFA World Cup 2026, carrying genuine expectations of ending more than six decades without a world title under manager Thomas Tuchel.

A group of familiar opponents

Before reaching the knockout rounds, England must navigate Group L — a schedule heavy with sides they have faced in recent major tournaments.

Their campaign opens on 17 June against Croatia at Arlington Stadium in Dallas, kicking off at 9pm UK time. The two nations last met at the 2018 World Cup semi-final, where Croatia claimed a 2-1 victory in extra time to end England's run.

Six days later, on 23 June, England take on Ghana in their first-ever competitive encounter. That match is set for Foxborough Stadium in Boston, again with a 9pm kick-off.

England close out Group L on 27 June against Panama — another 2018 opponent — at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with the match starting at 10pm UK time. Harry Kane delivered a standout display when these teams last met in Russia, helping England secure a place in the Round of 16 with a match to spare.

The Three Lions warmed up for the tournament with back-to-back friendly victories on American soil, beating New Zealand 1-0 and Costa Rica 3-0.

The road beyond the group stage

If England top Group L, they would meet the third-placed finisher from Groups E, H, I, or J in the Round of 16. Those groups are expected to include several of the tournament's heavyweight contenders — Germany, Spain, France, holders Argentina, and Portugal among them.

A second-place finish in the group would pit England against either the winners of Group A or the best third-placed side from Groups C, E, F, H, or I — a path that Tuchel's side would still enter as strong favourites.