World Cup Roundup: England Top Group L, Croatia Reach Knockouts

World Cup Roundup: England Top Group L, Croatia Reach Knockouts

World Cup Roundup – In the latest World Cup updates, England secured Group L leadership with a decisive 2-0 win against Panama, while Croatia advanced to the knockout rounds after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ghana in the final group matches on Sunday.

England 2-0 Panama

England claimed the top spot in Group L with a commanding performance at the New York Stadium. Under Thomas Tuchel’s guidance, the team maintained control of the ball in the first half before scoring in the 62nd minute. A corner from Bukayo Saka found Jude Bellingham, whose header netted the opener. Just five minutes later, Bellingham set up Harry Kane for a clinical finish, extending England’s lead in the 67th minute. The hosts overwhelmed their opponents in the second half, generating 17 chances, six of which were on target, compared to Panama’s 13 attempts, only two of which reached Jordan Pickford.

Croatia 2-1 Ghana

Croatia claimed second in Group L with a hard-fought 2-1 triumph over Ghana at the Philadelphia Stadium. The 2018 World Cup champions took the lead early in the 31st minute as Petar Sucic struck a long-range shot following a pass from Mateo Kovacic. Ghana responded in the second half, equalizing in the 73rd minute after Derrick Luckassen headed Ernest Nuamah’s free kick, a goal initially flagged offside but later confirmed by VAR. Croatia reclaimed the lead in the 83rd minute through a well-placed corner from Luka Modric, with Nikola Vlasic scoring the winner. Despite persistent pressure in the final stages, Ghana couldn’t find a breakthrough, securing the three points for Croatia.

As Group L winners, England will face