England have secured their place in the knockout stages of the World Cup as one of the eight best third-place teams. Results elsewhere overnight confirmed the Three Lions' progression, but tonight's match against Panama offers a chance to finish as group winners.
What England need to top the group
A victory over Panama tonight will likely see England top Group L. The only scenario where England wins but does not top the group is if Ghana beats Croatia and overtakes Thomas Tuchel's side on goal difference. England currently hold a superior goal difference by one.
A draw would also seal top spot, unless there is a winner in the Ghana-Croatia match. If England loses to Panama, they would finish second if Ghana beats Croatia or the match ends in a draw. Should Croatia win and England lose, the Three Lions would still qualify second if their goal difference remains better than Ghana's (currently +1).
Schedule challenges for England
A victory over Ghana on Tuesday would have allowed Tuchel to rest players against Panama, but England's campaign started late due to being in Group L. This condensed schedule means England could play six games in 23 days if they reach the final on July 19.
Tiebreaker rules changed
For the first time since 1970, goal difference is no longer the first tiebreaker for teams level on points. Head-to-head record is now used, which is why England would finish ahead of Croatia if both end on four points.
Potential Round of 32 opponents
As group winners, England would enter the bottom half of the draw and face a third-placed side from Groups E, I, J, or K. This is almost certain to be Ecuador, Senegal, Austria, Algeria, DR Congo, or Uzbekistan, with a slim chance of Portugal. The match would be in Atlanta on July 1 at 5pm.
A second-place finish would see England play the runner-up of Group K, likely Portugal or Colombia, in Toronto on July 2 at 12am. Finishing third would mean facing the winner of Group K in Kansas City on July 4 at 2.30am.
