England qualify for World Cup knockout stage

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England won their World Cup opener against Croatia but drew with Ghana

Published6 minutes ago

England's place in the knockout stages of the World Cup has been confirmed before they face Panama in their final group game on Saturday.

The Three Lions sit on four points after two games - meaning they are at least guaranteed one of the eight third-placed qualification spots.

Four other teams sit on four points - Sweden, Ecuador, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Paraguay - with four groups, including England's still to wrap up.

Uruguay's defeat by Spain on Saturday was the result that confirmed the Three Lions' place in the last 32.

England made a winning start to the tournament by beating Croatia 4-2, before being held to a goalless draw by Ghana on Tuesday.

Thomas Tuchel has already confirmed Reece James will miss the final group fixture through injury, while Declan Rice sat out of Thursday's training session.

James, 26, suffered a hamstring issue in the goalless draw with Ghana on Tuesday.

Rice, meanwhile, who left Boston Stadium on Tuesday with strapping on his left calf, was also absent from Thursday's session at England's training base in Kansas City.