With the FIFA World Cup 2026 group stages drawing to a close, attention is turning to the knockout rounds — and the bracket is already throwing up some mouth-watering potential clashes.

England's route to the final

Thomas Tuchel's side are in strong shape after opening with a victory over Croatia, and England appear on course to top their group. A last-32 meeting with Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo could be the reward — though that prospect hinges on Portugal improving on their opening draw against DR Congo.

Should England advance, co-hosts Mexico could await in the last 16, with the match set to take place in Mexico City. The quarter-finals could then pit England against France or Brazil, while holders Argentina and Lionel Messi represent a potential semi-final obstacle.

And if the Three Lions were to reach the final? Spain could be standing in their way. It would be a formidable route for a side chasing a first World Cup title since 1966.

Scotland's survival fight

Scotland's campaign is on a knife's edge following their defeat to Morocco. Steve Clarke's side must beat Brazil at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on Wednesday to guarantee their place in the round of 32.

As things stand, Scotland's three points would be sufficient to qualify as one of the best third-placed sides — but there is no certainty that tally holds up once all groups are settled. The Opta Supercomputer currently places their probability of progressing at just above 70 percent.

If Scotland do make it through, the bracket sets up a last-32 tie with Germany. Win that, and Clarke's men could face Norway or Sweden in the following round before a quarter-final against the Netherlands.

Survive all of that, and a semi-final against Spain could follow — with a final against England the tantalising prospect at the end of the road. A British final on North American soil would be the stuff of football dreams.