Preview: Panama vs England prediction, odds, where to watch, time | FIFA World Cup 2026

Thomas Tuchel’s Three Lions eye a big win over Los Canaleros to take top honours of Group L.

New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium) in East Rutherford, United States of America, gears up to host a final Matchweek fixture in Group L of the FIFA World Cup 2026. England and Panama lock horns in a thrilling contest.

Los Canaleros have already been eliminated from the FIFA World Cup 2026 after succumbing to two narrow defeats to Croatia and Ghana. They are playing their second World Cup. In their final game against England, they can spoil Thomas Tuchel’s top-of-the-table celebration with a big upset win.

Panama have shown massive improvements in the last few years. Even Croatia’s coach Zlatko Dalic admitted he was surprised by how much his side struggled against Panama. Despite an early exit, it’s a brilliant opportunity for Panama to go and showcase their talent in front of the world against an elite team.

The Three Lions had a tough outing in their last game against Ghana, failing to score. England’s 78.8% possession against Ghana was the highest by any team failing to score in World Cup history. They are still one of the favourites to finish as the table toppers of Group L.

Thomas Tuchel’s side registered a 4-2 win over Croatia in their opening game before settling for a goalless draw against Ghana. England are just a win away from cementing their spot at the top of Group L. After that draw against Ghana, they have drawn 23 World Cup matches, more than any other nation in history

World Cups have a habit of producing unforgettable moments, and this encounter has all the ingredients to be another memorable chapter. With talented players spread across the pitch and little room for error, fans can expect an entertaining battle between two teams eager to make their mark in the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Kick-off:

• Location: East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA
• Stadium: New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium)
• Date: Saturday, June 27
• Kick-off time: 10 p.m. BST, 5 p.m. local EDT [ Sunday, June 28 – 2:30 a.m. IST]
• Referee:
• VAR: In use

Form:

Panama (in all competitions): L-L-D-W-L

England (in all competitions): D-W-W-W-L

Players to Watch

Amir Murillo (Panama)

From modest roots in Colon to becoming one of Central America’s most globally respected active defenders, Murillo is one of the most highly values players in the Panama squad.

He was exceptional against Ghana. The Besiktas player has plied his trade with top leagues across the world, including the Major League Soccer, Belgium’s Pro League, Ligue 1, and the Super Lig. He has immense experience playing in Europe and rubs shoulders with the best players week in and week out.

Elliot Anderson (England)

One of the most highly valued assets in modern football history, Anderson made a high-profile switch from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City in the last few hours. He has started both games for England.

He has been in top form and shown immense maturity at such a young age. His work rate on the pitch is exceptional, covering a lot of metric distance. Moreover, his creative half-space arrivals make him a true asset for Thomas Tuchel.

England are aware that a win is mandatory. Any hiccup in the next game could badly affect their knockout brackets.

Match Facts

• These two sides met only once in the FIFA World Cup 2018, and England defeated them 6-1
• Panama scored their first ever World Cup goal against England.
• Harry Kane scored a hat-trick when these two sides last met.

Panama vs England: Betting Tips and Odds

• England to win – 1/6 with Betfred
• Harry Kane to score – 4/9 with Betfred
• Panama 0-5 England – 14/1 with Betfred

Injury and Team News

Adalberto Carrasquilla’s adductor injury keeps him out of the next game. Their all-time leading appearance-maker, Anibal Godoy, also remains doubtful.

Meanwhile, Tuchel may be tempted to make a few changes. Rashford and Saka are waiting for their turn to start. Mainoo might replace Declan Rice, who picked up a knock.

Recce James is also expected to be rested, with Djed Spence switching flanks and O’Reilly making a comeback.

Head-to-Head

Total games: 01

Panama won: 00

England won: 01

Matches drawn: 00

Predicted Lineups

Panama predicted lineup (5-4-1)

Orlando Mosquera (GK); Michael Amir Murillo, José Córdoba, Jiovany Ramos, Miller Andrade, César Blackman; Cristian Martínez, Yoel Bárcenas, Carlos Harvey, José Luis Rodríguez; José Fajardo.

England predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)

Jordan Pickford (GK); Djed Spence, Marc Guéhi, Ezri Konsa, Jack O’Reilly; Kobbie Mainoo, Elliot Anderson; Noni Madueke, Jude Bellingham, Marcus Rashford; Harry Kane.

Match Prediction

Clinching a win would not be a big deal for the Three Lions, who failed to score against Ghana. Ahead of the knockouts, Tuchel’s men would be keen to win it big to boost confidence in the camp.

Prediction: Panama 0-5 England

Telecast Details

India: Unite8 Sports Channels, ZEE5,

UK: BBC & ITV

USA: FOX Sports

Nigeria: DStv, GOtv

Full Broadcaster List here.

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