UEFA · Group L
England at FIFA World Cup 2026
England qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026, the first 48-team edition, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
Group L opponents
England plays the following three teams in the group stage. Top 2 advance to the Round of 32; the 3rd-placed team can still advance via the best-3rd-placed playoff route (8 of 12 third-placed teams qualify).
England fixtures
England in the tournament
UEFA (Europe) sends 16 teams to the 2026 expanded tournament, the largest single-confederation allocation.
The 2026 World Cup is the largest in tournament history, with 48 teams divided into 12 groups of 4. The top 2 from each group advance automatically, along with the 8 best 3rd-placed teams from across all groups. That puts England in Group L with Croatia, Ghana, Panama, competing for one of the 32 knockout slots.
England analysis
Frequently asked questions about England
When does England play at the FIFA World Cup 2026?
England plays 3 scheduled group-stage matches starting June 14, 2026. The opener is against GHA. See the full fixtures list below for every kickoff time and venue.
What group is England in at the World Cup 2026?
England is in Group L alongside Croatia, Ghana, Panama. The top two from each group advance to the Round of 32, plus the 8 best 3rd-placed teams across all 12 groups.
What is England's FIFA ranking?
England entered the FIFA World Cup 2026 ranked #4 in the FIFA World Ranking. This places them in the top 10 globally. Rankings update through the qualification cycle.
Can England win the World Cup 2026?
England's pre-tournament strength rating is 90/100, derived from FIFA ranking, recent form, and squad depth. They are among the title favourites alongside the other top-strength sides. Try them in the bracket predictor to test your scenario.