Knockouts are here – what is England’s path to the final?
Knockouts are here – England have advanced to the knockout rounds of the World Cup, securing their spot with a strong group stage performance. The team earned seven points across three matches, finishing ahead of Croatia, Ghana, and Panama. While their early games were inconsistent, they managed to overcome challenges and claim first place in Group L.
1 July – 17:00 BST
England’s next challenge will be in Atlanta, where they face DR Congo. The African team, ranked 46th globally, secured their place in the knockout phase after a draw with Portugal, a loss to Colombia, and a win over Uzbekistan. DR Congo’s defense held firm, allowing just three goals in their group matches, and their squad includes familiar faces like Yoane Wissa, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Axel Tuanzebe.
6 July – 01:00 BST
DR Congo, making their second World Cup appearance, are the first Sub-Saharan African team to reach this stage since 1974 under their former name Zaire. Their recent Africa Cup of Nations exit to Algeria in January adds context to their current World Cup run. Meanwhile, Mexico, one of three teams with perfect group records, could await England in the next round. The co-hosts, ranked ninth, have not lost a competitive match since November 2024, when they fell to Honduras in the Concacaf Nations League.
11 July – 22:00 BST
If England progress, their route becomes more complex. Brazil, five-time World Cup champions, are in the same bracket and may meet them in the quarter-finals. Before that, they must first face Japan, who finished second in Group F behind the Netherlands. Japan’s 1-0 friendly win over England in March highlights their recent form, which includes 16 consecutive matches without a loss. The potential last-16 clash will take place in the Estadio Azteca, a venue over 7,000 feet above sea level, known to challenge players with altitude effects.
Other possible quarter-final opponents for England include Ivory Coast and Norway. Ivory Coast, who finished second in their group, boast attacking talents such as Yan Diomande and Amad Diallo. Norway, making their World Cup debut since 1998, have shown promise under coach Stale Solholm, with Erling Haaland leading their forward line. The path ahead remains uncertain, but England’s next steps will determine if they can reach the final.
