CORNERFLICK
England take on Panama in their final Group L game at New Jersey’s stadium on Sunday morning, with kick-off at 00:30 Tehran time.
England have four points after beating Croatia 4-2 and drawing 0-0 with Ghana, and arrive in a strong position. Panama have lost both of their opening matches, going down 1-0 to Ghana and 1-0 to Croatia, so they need points to stay in the tournament.
Jude Bellingham remains England’s key midfielder, with Phil Foden expected to help break down a compact defence. Harry Kane leads the line and Bukayo Saka offers pace and dribbling from wide areas.
Panama have relied on organisation, running power and quick transitions to stay in games. José Fajardo and Ismael Díaz provide their main threat up front, while Fidel Escobar and Eric Davis face the task of dealing with England’s attack.
The other Group L fixture sees Ghana face Croatia, a result that could tighten the race at the top of the table. England look well placed to qualify, but their place at the top is not yet secure.