Panama vs England | FIFA World Cup 2026 — Group Stage | Preview and Prediction

World Cup contenders England will face a feisty Panama side in their final Group L fixture at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on June 28 at New York New Jersey Stadium in the USA.

For the game, here we present our preview and prediction.

FIFA WC26 | Group L: PAN vs ENG | 02:30 IST, June 28, 2026

England came into this World Cup with massive expectations, as is usual. They opened their campaign superbly with a 4–2 win against Croatia but fumbled against Ghana, against whom they could only manage a stalemate. The Black Stars played out their plan to perfection and defended in a deep low block, frustrating the Englishmen. Harry Kane missed a couple of good chances, but most of the English attack was rendered toothless by the stoic Ghanaian defence, leaving both teams on four points after the two games.

As for Panama, they are without a point from their two games. They lost 0–1 to both Ghana and Croatia despite playing well in both games. In fact, they dominated the game against Croatia with eight shots attempted, one big chance missed, and 19 touches in the opposition box. However, they only had one shot on target, while Croatia had two. Ante Budimir’s strike in the 54th minute proved to be the winner, as Panama couldn’t post an effective response.

England have a few injury concerns coming into this game, with both Declan Rice and Reece James doubtful with injuries, while Adalberto Carrasquilla will be out for Panama.

Panama have defended well throughout this tournament and have even shown attacking intent of their own. They were unlucky against Croatia, as they played really well and deserved at least a draw. However, their inexperience on the big stage has been evident once again. England, meanwhile, will be desperate to end the group stage with a win and ensure qualification for the round of 32, while Panama will want to go out of the World Cup with an upset or a draw.

In terms of quality, the two squads are miles apart, with the English contingent boasting world-class names in abundance and not many known names in the Panamanian camp. Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane, Marcus Rashford, and Bukayo Saka will be the key attacking options for England, and even though the Three Lions failed to score against Ghana, they should get on the scoresheet against Panama and win this one comfortably.

Score Prediction: Panama 0–2 England
Venue: New York New Jersey Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA