With 48 teams in the pot, England’s fixture list has now been finalised ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In the sweltering American heat, it’s Croatia, Ghana, and Panama who stand between England and their World Cup ambitions. None of the three are favourites on paper, but each poses a threat that could turn a routine group stage into something far more complicated.
England boast some of the world’s best footballers in their ranks – but tournaments are rarely won on reputation alone. In this article, we’ve picked out three players who could potentially derail the Three Lions’ hopes of glory.
When are England’s World Cup games?
- England vs Croatia: Wednesday 17 June (Dallas)
- England vs Ghana: Tuesday 23 June (Boston)
- Panama vs England: Saturday 27 June (New York)
Who are the players to watch?
Embed from Getty ImagesEngland vs… Joško Gvardiol
They’re not the Croatia team of old, but the Vatreni still boast several world-class talents. Amongst Mateo Kovačić, Josip Stanišić, and of course, Luka Modric, Joško Gvardiol stands out as a difference maker. The versatile defender stole headlines at the last World Cup in Qatar, and with several years of Guardiola tutorship now under his belt, he’ll only be stronger.
As seen in his time at Manchester City, Gvardiol is capable of playing at full-back and at centre-back. He’s confident with the ball at his feet. Even more comfortable in 1v1 situations. His battle with Bukayo Saka will be decisive when England take on Croatia in June.
Having faced England four times since 2018, Croatia are wise to the talent that England have in their ranks. With a strong blend of technique, intensity, and experience, the Vatreni will be far from pushovers in Dallas.
Embed from Getty ImagesEngland vs… Antoine Semenyo
It will come as no surprise to see Antoine Semenyo on this list. Since leaving Bristol City in 2022, the Ghanaian has become one of the Premier League’s most exciting wingers. He thrives as an underdog and has torn through some of the division’s best defences, already scoring six goals and providing three assists this season.
His explosive pace and elite finishing have been central to AFC Bournemouth’s recent success, which now links him with a move to Liverpool, Tottenham, and Manchester City.
Ghana may have missed out on AFCON qualification, but that could prove a blessing. With rested legs and added hunger, the Black Stars may cause chaos in Boston next June. If England decide to play a high line against Ghana, then quick interchanges between Semenyo and Mohammed Kudus – followed by a ball over the top – could be fatal.
Embed from Getty ImagesEngland vs… Amir Murillo
Widely regarded as the greatest Panamanian to play the game, Amir Murillo has been key for Olympique de Marseille this season. He’s shone in the UEFA Champions League and in Ligue 1 – particularly in OM’s wins over PSG and Ajax.
Whether at right-back, centre-back, or even as a winger, he has been reliable whenever Roberto De Zerbi has called upon him. Murillo is a tough tackler with good recovery pace and a real eye for a cut-back. He causes problems at both ends of the pitch with his ability to break up play and overlap.
Panama may be overlooked going into the tournament, but it’s well known that England struggle against deep blocks. If Los Canaleros can sit in, absorb pressure, and strike on the counter, they may avoid another thrashing at the hands of the Three Lions.