Group L
4 teams competing for two round-of-32 spots
Teams
Group Analysis
Group L features England, Croatia, Ghana, and Panama. England arrive under Thomas Tuchel with one of the most talented squads in their history. Croatia are back as defending bronze medalists with a settled squad. Ghana return to the World Cup with one of the most exciting young African squads. Panama return to the World Cup for the first time since 2018, looking to reach the knockout rounds for the first time.
Favorites to Advance
- England (talent depth, Tuchel system)
- Croatia (tournament experience, ModriΔ)
Dark Horses
- Ghana (Kudus, Partey)
- Panama (team spirit)
Predictions
1. England, 2. Croatia, 3. Ghana, 4. Panama. England should top the group with the quality of their squad. Croatia's tournament experience should see them through. Ghana's individual quality and Panama's team spirit will make them competitive but likely fall short.
Head-to-Head History
England and Croatia have met at the 2004 Euro and the 2007 Euro, but never at the World Cup. England and Ghana met in the 2010 group stage, with England winning 1-0. Croatia and Ghana have never met at the World Cup.