England at the FIFA World Cup 2026

History

England is the only Home Nation to win the FIFA World Cup, claiming the title in 1966 on home soil at Wembley Stadium, defeating West Germany 4-2 after extra time. Geoff Hurst scored a hat-trick in the final - the only one in World Cup final history until 2022 - and Sir Alf Ramsey was the manager. England have appeared in 16 World Cup tournaments in total and have reached the semi-finals twice, in 1990 (Italy) and 2018 (Russia), as well as the quarter-finals on several further occasions. They have never repeated the success of 1966 in any other major international tournament, though they reached the Euro 2020 final, losing to Italy on penalties.

Qualification

England qualified for the 2026 World Cup under head coach Thomas Tuchel, who was appointed in January 2025. They won UEFA qualifying Group K with a perfect record: 8 wins, 0 draws, 0 losses, scoring 22 goals and conceding none. England were the first European nation to secure their place at the tournament, clinching qualification in November 2025 with a match to spare. Their dominant campaign included decisive victories at Wembley and strong performances from a new generation of Premier League stars alongside experienced internationals led by captain Harry Kane.

Preparation

England's World Cup run ended in the semi-final, losing 1-2 to Argentina on 15 July at Atlanta Stadium: Anthony Gordon put England ahead (55'), but Enzo Fernandez (85') and Lautaro Martinez (90+3') scored late to send Argentina through; England now face France in the third-place play-off on 18 July at Miami Stadium. They reached the last four by beating Norway 2-1 after extra time in the quarter-final on 11 July (Bellingham 45+2', 93'; Schjelderup 36' for Norway), and Mexico 3-2 in the Round of 16 on 5 July in Mexico City (Bellingham 36', 38', Kane pen 60'), a match played with ten men for the final 40+ minutes after Jarell Quansah was sent off (54') and subsequently banned for two matches (missing the Norway and Argentina games). England opened the knockout stage by coming from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 in Atlanta on 1 July, with two late Harry Kane goals. Squad fitness concerns entering the Argentina semi-final included Jordan Henderson (wrist injury requiring surgery, unavailable), Declan Rice (illness, substituted at half-time vs Norway but expected to return) and Ezri Konsa (hamstring cramp from the Norway match, expected to return); Reece James made his first appearance since the Ghana group match, coming on for Anthony Gordon (71') vs Norway. England topped Group L with 7 points, beating Panama 2-0 (27 June), drawing 0-0 with Ghana (23 June) and beating Croatia 4-2 (17 June).

Latest news

England's World Cup dream ends as Argentina score twice late to win semi-final 2-1

· matches

Anthony Gordon's 55th-minute goal had put England on course for a first World Cup final since 1966, but Argentina hit back through Enzo Fernandez (85') and a Lautaro Martinez header in stoppage time (90+3') at Atlanta Stadium. Argentina held 88% possession in the 38 minutes after Gordon's goal. England now play France in the third-place play-off on 18 July in Miami.

Tuchel defends tactics and vows to stay as England boss after Argentina exit

· coach

Thomas Tuchel defended his substitutions and defensive approach after England's semi-final exit, saying 'the team gave everything', and confirmed he intends to remain as England manager through to Euro 2028. Harry Kane and Dan Burn, who said he felt 'numb', gave post-match reaction to the elimination.

Bellingham double sends England past Norway 2-1 after extra time into semi-finals

· matches

Jude Bellingham equalised in first-half stoppage time (45+2') and struck the winner three minutes into extra time (93'), capitalising on a goalkeeping error, after Andreas Schjelderup had put Norway ahead (36') at Miami Stadium. Kane had a goal ruled out for offside and Norway hit the crossbar. England advance to face Argentina in the semi-final.

Henderson faces wrist surgery, Rice and Konsa minor doubts after Norway quarter-final

· injuries

Jordan Henderson sustained a serious wrist injury requiring surgery; he was named among the substitutes vs Norway wearing a cast on his left arm and is a major doubt for the Argentina semi-final. Declan Rice was substituted at half-time vs Norway after dealing with a sickness bug, and Ezri Konsa picked up late hamstring cramp in the same match; both are expected to be available against Argentina.

Quansah banned two matches after Mexico red card; will miss Norway and Argentina

· squad

Jarell Quansah's straight red card in the Round of 16 win over Mexico, for a studs-up challenge on Jesus Gallardo, was upheld on VAR review and led to a two-match FIFA suspension. England's appeal was rejected, ruling him out of both the Norway quarter-final and the Argentina semi-final.

Bellingham brace and Kane penalty see 10-man England edge Mexico 3-2 in Round of 16

· matches

Jude Bellingham scored twice in 98 seconds (36', 38') and Harry Kane converted a penalty (60') as England beat hosts Mexico 3-2 at Estadio Azteca. Julian Quinones (42') and a Raul Jimenez penalty (69') replied for Mexico. Jarell Quansah was sent off (54') for a tackle on Jesus Gallardo, leaving England to see out over 40 minutes with ten men to reach the quarter-finals against Norway.

Late Kane double sends England past DR Congo 2-1 into Round of 16 vs Mexico

· matches

England came from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 in the Round of 32 at Atlanta Stadium. Brian Cipenga put DR Congo ahead (7'), before Harry Kane headed in (75') and struck a stunning late winner (86') to send England through to face co-hosts Mexico in Mexico City on 5 July.

Quansah ankle injury vs Panama adds to England right-back crisis; doubtful for DR Congo

· injuries

Jarell Quansah twisted his ankle in the 60th minute vs Panama, tangling with Jose Luis Rodriguez, replaced by Djed Spence. Tuchel: 'A classic ankle twist and he is in pain. He said he had it before and it is a matter of days.' He walked normally but is doubtful for the Round of 32 vs DR Congo on 1 July. England lost Livramento (tournament), James (hamstring rehab) and Quansah at right-back.

Kane breaks England World Cup scoring record with 11th goal, surpassing Lineker

· general

Harry Kane headed in England's second goal against Panama in the 67th minute from Bellingham's cross to become England's all-time World Cup top scorer with 11 goals, surpassing Gary Lineker's longstanding record of 10 set in 1990. Bellingham called Kane 'our greatest ever' after the match.

England beat Panama 2-0 to win Group L; advance to face DR Congo in Round of 32

· matches

England defeated Panama 2-0 at MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey to finish top of Group L with seven points. Bellingham swept home a Saka corner (62') and Kane headed in from Bellingham's cross (67'). England had 67% possession and 6 shots on goal. Panama ended the group stage without scoring. England face DR Congo in the Round of 32 on 1 July in Atlanta.

Saka makes first World Cup start vs Panama; Rice rested with hamstring concern

· squad

Bukayo Saka started for the first time in the 2026 World Cup against Panama, delivering the corner that Bellingham converted for the opener. Tuchel had signalled Panama as his target for Saka's first start. Declan Rice was rested due to a hamstring issue with Morgan Rogers starting in his place. Rashford also started, having recovered from the hamstring tightness listed ahead of the match.

Reece James confirmed absent for Panama; Tuchel targets return in knockout rounds

· injuries

Thomas Tuchel confirmed Reece James would miss the Panama match with a minor hamstring injury, unable to train for two days prior to the match. Tuchel: 'He has a minor hamstring injury. He's on an accelerated rehab programme. We strongly believe that he will be available for us again in the tournament.' Quansah started at right-back in James's place.

Spence and Rice new doubts for Panama after injury scares in Ghana draw

· injuries

Djed Spence twisted his ankle and was seen limping after the final whistle, emerging as a doubt for Panama on 27 June. Declan Rice completed 90 minutes but left the stadium with heavy strapping on his left calf. Reece James also reported hamstring tightness post-match. England staff monitoring all three ahead of Panama on 27 June; none confirmed absent.

Bellingham earns 50th England cap vs Ghana, becomes youngest player to reach milestone

· general

Jude Bellingham became England's youngest player to earn 50 senior caps, reaching the landmark against Ghana at 22 years and 359 days - beating Wayne Rooney's record by 160 days. He played 73 minutes and was named FIFA's Superior Player of the Match. Bellingham said: 'Fifty caps... very proud of 50 games for my country. I'm the youngest to do it as well so a massive honour.'

England held 0-0 by Ghana despite 19 shots; Saka and Rashford came off bench

· matches

England were frustrated by a disciplined Ghana defensive block at Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, drawing 0-0. England had 79% possession and 19 shots but only 3 on target; O'Reilly hit the crossbar late on. Saka came on at 65', Rashford at 83'. Ghana made 39 clearances and 22 tackles. Both teams now have 4 points in Group L heading into their final group match. England face Panama on 27 June.

Rice and Rashford both carrying fitness concerns ahead of England vs Ghana on 23 June

· injuries

Rice (back/hamstring discomfort, off at 72' vs Croatia) and Rashford (hamstring tightness) both listed as doubts for Ghana on 23 June. Rice said: 'All good, good as gold. Just what I've been nursing in the second half of the season at Arsenal.' Tuchel hopeful Rashford returns to full training by Saturday. Saka continues Achilles management.

Rashford hamstring tightness: doubtful for Ghana, starting role unlikely

· injuries

Marcus Rashford was seen holding his hamstring during England's 4-2 win over Croatia and did not participate in a training session on Thursday. Described as doubtful for the 23 June Ghana match. England's coaching staff are reportedly hopeful the issue is not severe. A starting role against Ghana is considered unlikely; Rashford may be available as a substitute if fit.

Tuchel: Saka will not start vs Ghana, targeting Panama as first World Cup start

· injuries

After coming off the bench at 72' against Croatia and assisting Rashford's fourth goal, Bukayo Saka is still not deemed ready to start. Tuchel said: 'Bukayo is ready and will get more and more ready. Once we get to the last game in the group it is the moment.' Tuchel confirmed Noni Madueke is set to retain the right-wing spot against Ghana on 23 June.

England beat Croatia 4-2 in World Cup opener with Kane brace and Bellingham goal

· matches

England defeated Croatia 4-2 at Dallas Stadium in Group L. Kane scored a penalty (12') and a header (42'); Bellingham restored the lead after half-time (47'); Rashford sealed it (85') after a Saka assist. Croatia replied through Baturina (36') and Musa (45+5'). Tuchel at half-time: 'Let's do it our way.' Ground duels won rose from 33% to 77% in the second half.

Trevoh Chalobah added to England squad as Livramento replacement ahead of Croatia

· squad

Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah was called up to England's World Cup squad after Tino Livramento suffered a calf injury in training on 15 June and was ruled out of the tournament. FIFA rules allowed the replacement within 24 hours of the opening fixture. Tuchel: 'Tino was of course very disappointed and sad. All of us were.' Chalobah (1 cap) joined in Kansas City while the squad flew to Dallas.

Livramento ruled out of 2026 World Cup with calf injury suffered in training

· injuries

Tino Livramento sustained a calf injury during England training on 15 June, a day before the Croatia opener. Scans on 16 June confirmed he could not continue and he was sent home to Newcastle for rehabilitation, expected out for six weeks. He had entered the tournament with limited match fitness after a thigh injury in April. Replaced in the squad by Trevoh Chalobah.

Saka says he is ready ahead of Croatia opener; starts on bench

· injuries

At his pre-Croatia press conference on 16 June, Bukayo Saka said: 'I'm feeling a lot better than I did in March and I'm ready to go. The main focus right now is winning the World Cup.' Despite this, Tuchel named him among the substitutes for the Croatia match, with Noni Madueke starting on the right flank. Saka was introduced at the 72nd minute.

England beat Costa Rica 3-0 in final World Cup warm-up; Tuchel says squad ready

· matches

England won 3-0 against Costa Rica in Orlando (delayed an hour by a thunderstorm). Rice scored in the 10th minute, Gordon converted a penalty on 68 minutes, Watkins added a third late on. Tuchel: 'If we can play like this and grow into the tournament with this cohesion and team spirit, this will hopefully be an amazing experience.' Squad emerged injury-free; Saka came on at 63'.

Saka comes off the bench vs Costa Rica as Achilles management continues

· injuries

Bukayo Saka was introduced as a substitute in the 63rd minute against Costa Rica, not starting, as England continue to limit his workload. Tuchel said Saka 'needs management to be fully, fully 100% - which he is not. But he is on a high level.' His most recent start before the tournament was the Champions League final on 30 May. England will continue to manage his minutes during the World Cup.

Tuchel: Saka available for Costa Rica but unlikely to start and finish every match

· injuries

At his 9 June Orlando press conference Thomas Tuchel said Bukayo Saka is available for the Costa Rica friendly but is not yet fully 100% after carrying an injury from the March camp through Arsenal's season; he has completed 90 minutes only once since March. Tuchel said it is very unlikely Saka starts and finishes all matches from now on, with staff still building him up.

Arsenal quartet join England camp and are available for Costa Rica

· squad

Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke joined England's Orlando camp late after Arsenal's Champions League final and were unavailable for the New Zealand win, but Tuchel confirmed all four are available for the Costa Rica friendly on 10 June. Rice, Eze and Madueke are fully fit; only Saka needs careful management.

Tuchel targets 60-70 minutes for key players in final Costa Rica warm-up

· matches

Ahead of England's final World Cup warm-up against Costa Rica at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando on 10 June, Tuchel said he is targeting around 60 to 70 minutes for many key players to build match fitness without risking fatigue, and plans to test central-defensive partnerships before the Croatia opener on 17 June.

Kane header earns England 1-0 win over New Zealand in first World Cup warm-up

· matches

Harry Kane headed home in first-half stoppage time from a Djed Spence cross to beat New Zealand 1-0 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, England's first World Cup warm-up. In stifling Florida heat Tuchel changed his entire XI at half-time, using 22 players to acclimatise. The goal took Kane to 79 England goals in 113 caps; Rio Ngumoha came on for a debut. England face Costa Rica next on 10 June.

England begin hot-weather World Cup training in humid Florida

· general

England trained at their Palm Beach base in hot, humid conditions (around 32C) as they acclimatise before the tournament. Ollie Watkins said it was 'nice to be out here adapting to what it's going to be like at the World Cup', while Jordan Henderson stressed building fitness and rhythm. The squad face New Zealand on Saturday and Costa Rica next week before moving to Kansas City on 13 June.

England squad arrive in Florida for World Cup pre-tournament camp

· general

Thomas Tuchel's squad touched down in the USA on Monday 1 June and checked in at their West Palm Beach base, with the first training session set for Tuesday morning (US time). Arsenal and Crystal Palace players join later after the Champions League and Conference League finals, and four young players were added to the training group.

England confirm Florida camp plan and two World Cup warm-up friendlies

· matches

The FA set out England's preparation: the 26-man squad gathers from 1 June at their Florida base before warm-up friendlies against New Zealand (6 June, Tampa) and Costa Rica (10 June, Orlando), then move to their Kansas City tournament basecamp ahead of the opener against Croatia in Dallas on 17 June.

Arsenal quartet given extra week off after Champions League final

· squad

Tuchel granted Arsenal's England contingent: Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke, an extended post-season break after their Champions League final involvement, so they join the Florida camp around a week later than the rest of the squad and miss the New Zealand friendly.

Squad

PlayerPositionClub
Jordan PickfordGKEverton
Dean HendersonGKCrystal Palace
James TraffordGKManchester City
Reece JamesDFChelsea
Djed SpenceDFTottenham Hotspur
Nico O'ReillyDFManchester City
Marc GuéhiDFManchester City
John StonesDFManchester City
Ezri KonsaDFAston Villa
Dan BurnDFNewcastle United
Jarell QuansahDFBayer Leverkusen
Trevoh ChalobahDFChelsea
Declan RiceMFArsenal
Jude BellinghamMFReal Madrid
Elliot AndersonMFNottingham Forest
Kobbie MainooMFManchester United
Jordan HendersonMFBrentford
Eberechi EzeMFArsenal
Morgan RogersMFAston Villa
Bukayo SakaFWArsenal
Marcus RashfordFWBarcelona
Harry KaneFWBayern Munich
Ollie WatkinsFWAston Villa
Anthony GordonFWNewcastle United
Noni MaduekeFWArsenal
Ivan ToneyFWAl-Ahli

Recent results

  • 2026-07-15 — ENG 1-2 ARG (semi_final)
  • 2026-07-11 — NOR 1-2 ENG (quarter_final)
  • 2026-07-05 — MEX 2-3 ENG (round_of_16)
  • 2026-07-01 — ENG 2-1 COD (round_of_32)
  • 2026-06-27 — PAN 0-2 ENG (group)
  • 2026-06-23 — ENG 0-0 GHA (group)
  • 2026-06-17 — ENG 4-2 CRO (group)
  • 2026-06-10 — ENG 3-0 CRC (friendly)
  • 2024-03-23 — ENG 0-1 BRA (friendly)
  • 2024-03-26 — ENG 2-2 BEL (friendly)
  • 2024-06-03 — ENG 3-0 BIH (friendly)
  • 2024-06-07 — ENG 0-1 ISL (friendly)
  • 2025-03-21 — ENG 2-0 ALB (qualification)
  • 2025-03-24 — ENG 3-0 LVA (qualification)
  • 2025-06-07 — AND 0-1 ENG (qualification)
  • 2025-06-10 — ENG 1-3 SEN (friendly)
  • 2025-09-06 — ENG 2-0 AND (qualification)
  • 2025-09-09 — SRB 0-5 ENG (qualification)
  • 2025-10-09 — ENG 3-0 WAL (friendly)
  • 2025-10-14 — LVA 0-5 ENG (qualification)
  • 2025-11-13 — ENG 2-0 SRB (qualification)
  • 2025-11-16 — ALB 0-2 ENG (qualification)
  • 2026-03-27 — ENG 1-1 URU (friendly)
  • 2026-03-31 — ENG 0-1 JPN (friendly)

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