England Top Group L as Croatia Edge Ghana to Reach World Cup Knockout Stage
England sealed top spot in Group L of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a comfortable 2-0 victory over Panama, while Croatia secured second place with a dramatic 2-1 win over Ghana on the final day of the group stage.
Despite their defeat, Ghana also progressed to the round of 32 as one of the best third-placed teams, while Panama exited the tournament without a single point.
At the New York New Jersey Stadium, England struggled to break down a resilient Panama side in the first half, with both teams going into the break goalless. However, the Three Lions stepped up after the restart.
Jude Bellingham broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute after being set up by Bukayo Saka. Five minutes later, Bellingham turned provider as captain Harry Kane fired home England’s second goal to secure the victory.
The goal was a historic one for Kane, as the striker became England’s all-time leading scorer at the FIFA World Cup with his 11th tournament goal. It was also his 70th goal of the season for club and country, a new record that surpasses the previous achievements of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
England comfortably saw out the game to finish unbeaten at the top of Group L with seven points.
Meanwhile, in Philadelphia, Croatia and Ghana served up a thrilling encounter with qualification on the line.
Croatia initially took the lead before Ghana fought back in the 76th minute through Derrick Luckassen. The goal was initially ruled out for offside, but after a lengthy VAR review, it was awarded to bring the Black Stars level.
However, Croatia responded just seven minutes later when veteran midfielder Luka Modrić delivered a pinpoint corner that was powerfully headed into the net by Nikola Vlašić, sealing a crucial 2-1 victory.
The result lifted Croatia to six points and secured second place in the group behind England. Ghana finished third with four points but advanced to the knockout stages as one of the best third-placed teams, while Panama ended their campaign bottom of the table without a point.
Final Group L standings:
- England – 7 points
- Croatia – 6 points
- Ghana – 4 points
- Panama – 0 points
England advance to the round of 32 as group winners, Croatia qualify as runners-up, while Ghana’s campaign continues after securing one of the qualification spots available to the best third-placed teams.
