England have secured their place in the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup, but still need to top Group L when they face Panama on Saturday. The Three Lions are out to seal top spot after a stalemate with Ghana, and face a Panama side that have made significant strides since the 2018 thrashing that laid foundations for Gareth Southgate’s progress.
Amid the joy of England’s qualification, there was disappointment for Scotland, whose wait for a first World Cup appearance since 1998 goes on. Spain, meanwhile, have been hit by injuries ahead of their final group game.
“England qualify for World Cup knockout stages but need to top Group L against Panama.”
Elsewhere, Iran were denied permission to stay in Seattle after their draw against Egypt, according to reports from Ben Fisher. And Cape Verde’s celebrations after their own result caught the eye.
For Uruguay, it has been a miserable tournament to forget. Marcelo Bielsa, the one-time hipster’s favourite coach, has endured a difficult job. “He’s a legend and anyone who says otherwise is not worth listening to,” said Guardian colleague Dick Wetherell, a Leeds fan who recalled happier times for Bielsa. “Someone said he’s lost the dressing room. I pointed out that there aren’t many good players in that dressing room.”