FIFA World Cup 2026: England’s fixtures, group, squad and players to watch
England arrive at the FIFA World Cup 2026 among the favourites to lift the trophy as Thomas Tuchel looks to guide the Three Lions to their first world title since 1966.
After reaching the latter stages of multiple major tournaments in recent years, England head to North America with one of the deepest squads in the competition and renewed belief under their German head coach.
Drawn in Group L alongside Croatia, Ghana and Panama, England will be expected to progress to the knockout stages, although their opening fixture against Croatia presents an immediate test.
Which group are England in?
England have been placed in Group L alongside:
Croatia
Ghana
Panama
The Three Lions open their campaign against Croatia before facing Ghana and Panama in their remaining group-stage matches.
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England fixtures at the FIFA World Cup 2026
England vs Croatia
Date: June 17
Venue: Arlington, Texas
England vs Ghana
Date: June 23
Venue: Foxborough, Massachusetts
Panama vs England
Date: June 27
Venue: East Rutherford, New Jersey
England will likely view the Croatia clash as the key fixture in determining who tops Group L.
England squad
Tuchel's 26-man squad contains a blend of experienced tournament performers and emerging talent, although several high-profile names missed out on selection.
Among the most notable omissions were Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Harry Maguire as Tuchel opted for a different profile of player heading into the tournament.
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Key squad members
Goalkeepers
Jordan Pickford
Dean Henderson
James Trafford
Defenders
John Stones
Marc Guehi
Reece James
Ezri Konsa
Tino Livramento
Midfielders
Jude Bellingham
Declan Rice
Morgan Rogers
Kobbie Mainoo
Eberechi Eze
Forwards
Harry Kane
Bukayo Saka
Marcus Rashford
Ollie Watkins
Ivan Toney
Anthony Gordon
Noni Madueke
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Players to watch
Harry Kane
England's captain remains the focal point of the attack.
The Bayern Munich striker enters another World Cup as one of the most prolific goalscorers in international football and remains central to England's hopes of ending their long wait for global success.
Tuchel recently described Kane as being in outstanding physical and mental condition ahead of the tournament.
Jude Bellingham
Few players arrive at the tournament with greater expectations.
The Real Madrid midfielder has established himself as one of the world's premier talents and is expected to play a pivotal role in England's midfield.
Despite his status, Tuchel has stressed that every player must earn their place in the starting XI.
Declan Rice
Recently confirmed as England's vice-captain, Rice provides leadership, defensive stability and control in midfield.
His influence has continued to grow under Tuchel and he is expected to be one of the team's most important players throughout the tournament.
Bukayo Saka
The Arsenal winger remains one of England's most dangerous attacking weapons.
His creativity, direct running and ability to produce moments of quality in big matches make him a player opposition defences will be desperate to contain.
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What are England's chances?
England enter the tournament among the leading contenders.
The Three Lions boast quality across every area of the pitch, possess significant tournament experience and have one of football's most respected coaches in Tuchel.
Statistical models and bookmakers continue to place England among the favourites to challenge for the title alongside the likes of Argentina, France, Spain and Brazil.
However, the pressure surrounding England at major tournaments remains immense. Having fallen short in recent World Cups and European Championships, the challenge for this group is converting potential into silverware.
Progression from Group L is widely expected. The bigger question is whether England can finally go all the way and lift the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 60 years.