Panama: Eliminated, but still eager to finish on a high

Panama’s hopes of reaching the knockout stage are already over after defeats to both Ghana and Croatia, yet their performances have been more competitive than the results suggest. Both losses were by a single goal, and against Croatia, Thomas Christiansen’s side remained in contention until the closing stages despite falling behind.

The biggest issue has been a lack of cutting edge in the final third. José Fajardo has contributed plenty of work rate and movement, but has struggled to provide a genuine goal threat, while midfield leader Adalberto Carrasquilla has been limited by a recurring injury. Panama will also have extra motivation against England, hoping to erase memories of their heavy 6-1 defeat at the 2018 World Cup with a much more disciplined display this time around.

England: Looking to regain momentum

England made an eye-catching start by defeating Croatia 4-2, showcasing the attacking style Thomas Tuchel has introduced. However, their second outing proved far more challenging, as Ghana frustrated the Three Lions in a goalless draw. Despite dominating possession and producing 19 attempts, England managed only three shots on target, highlighting the difficulties they faced against a compact defensive setup.

Tuchel is expected to make several changes to inject more energy into the attack. Morgan Rogers, Marcus Rashford, and Bukayo Saka are all pushing for starting roles as England look to stretch Panama’s defense with greater pace and creativity. With first place in the group still on the line, the Three Lions know that anything less than victory could leave them with a far more difficult path in the knockout rounds.

Probable lineups

Panama: Mosquera; Blackman, Andrade, Ramos, Cordoba; Murillo, Harvey, Barcenas, Rodriguez; Martinez, Waterman.

England: Pickford; James, Guéhi, Stones, O’Riley; Anderson, Rice; Rogers, Saka, Rashford; Kane.

Match facts and head-to-head

Panama have lost both of their group-stage matches and can no longer qualify for the knockout rounds.

England opened with a 4-2 victory over Croatia before being held to a 0-0 draw by Ghana, ending a 12-match winning streak in competitive fixtures.

The two nations previously met at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where England recorded a convincing 6-1 victory.

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