World Cup 2026 has burst into life across the Atlantic but England must bide their time before they can join the party.
Thomas Tuchel’s side have been drawn in Group L, the last of the 12 groups, alongside Croatia, Ghana and Panama, which means they are at the back end of the schedule.
The Three Lions kick things off against a familiar foe. Croatia broke English hearts in the 2018 semi-finals and, with the likes of Luka Modric and Ivan Perisic still in their ranks, remain a wily outfit with knockout aspirations of their own.
Next up is Ghana in Boston. The Black Stars have the attacking firepower to cause problems, including Man City’s Antoine Semenyo, but should be no match for England’s quality.
Tuchel will hope to have top spot in Group L secure heading into their final fixture against Panama, the lowest-ranked side in the group, and may well rest some key players assuming a knockout spot is already secure.
Though England fans will be soaking up the World Cup fever from day one, patience will be required in what is the biggest tournament ever after the expansion to 48 teams.
Radio Times brings you the lowdown of all of England’s fixtures at World Cup 2026, including details about their next match.
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When do England play next at World Cup 2026?
England will play Croatia on Wednesday 17 June at 8pm UK time in the World Cup 2026 group stages.
The game will be held at Dallas Stadium in Texas, United States.
England fixtures and results (World Cup 2026)
England were drawn in Group L alongside Ghana, Panama and Croatia.
Group Stage
Wednesday 17 June
- England v Croatia (9pm, Dallas Stadium) ITV1 / ITVX
Tuesday 23 June
- England v Ghana (9pm, Boston Stadium) BBC One / BBC iPlayer
Saturday 27 June
- Panama v England (10pm, New York New Jersey Stadium) ITV1 / ITVX
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Authors
Ned is a sports writer at RadioTimes.com. He has covered a host of sports from EFL football, international cricket and golf all the way through to bike polo and triathlon.
