England also suffered an injury to Reece James after the Chelsea star bowed out in Panama

England will face Panama in the final match of Group L knowing that victory will secure first place, but will be without star defender Reece James.

Thomas Tuchel's team got off to a good start in the tournament by beating Croatia 4-2 in their opening match.

Harry Kane took the lead with two goals, converting from the penalty spot before adding a second before half-time to equal Gary Lineker's 10 World Cup goals for England.

Jude Bellingham found the back of the net again after the break with a powerful finish to give England the lead, while Marcus Rashford wrapped up victory late on with England's fourth goal.

Croatia doubled the deficit through Martin Baturina and Petar Musa, but England always looked capable of producing another reply.

The Three Lions finished the game with 20 attempts on goal and got off to an impressive start in Group L as Tuchel's attacking players caused problems throughout the competition.

England could not build on that result in the same way against Ghana.

The Three Lions were held to a goalless draw despite enjoying plenty of possession and space.

England struggled to break down a disciplined Ghana defense and created fewer clear-cut chances than they did against Croatia.

Jordan Pickford was called into action at times to preserve England's clean sheet, while both Nico O'Reilly and Harry Kane both spurned impressive late chances in succession.

Jude Bellingham was also lucky to avoid a red card for covering his mouth.

This game left England with four points from their first two games and they were able to control their future in the final group game against Panama.

One concern from the Ghana game centered on James.

The Chelsea defender started both of England's World Cup openers and completed 90 minutes against Croatia before returning to play in the draw against Ghana.

James has been one of Tuchel's trusted players since the former Chelsea manager took charge of England.

His ability to operate as a full-back and attacking full-back allowed England to add versatility on the right.

The 26-year-old has also enjoyed an impressive domestic campaign.

James made almost 40 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions in the 2025/26 season, contributing at both ends of the pitch with goals, assists and strong defensive displays.

However, James reported that the muscle is tight after the draw against Ghana.

The defender was unable to train fully with the rest of the team before the Panama game. Instead, he completed an individual recovery program under the supervision of English medical staff.

England have also dealt with Reece James' injury after the Panama news

BBC Sport reports there are now fears James could miss England's Round of 32 clash if the Three Lions go into the knockout stages.

The report states that the hamstring injury is expected to keep the defender out for at least two games.

That means James can no longer meet Panama and leaves him facing a race to qualify for England's first play-off game.

His absence will represent a major setback for Tuchel given James' importance to England's defensive system.

England are already without Newcastle United defender Tino Livramento, reducing Tuchel's options on the right side of defence.

Players including Djed Spence, Ezri Konsa and Jarell Quansah can fill the position if needed, but they are short on natural linebackers.

England are focused on finishing the group stage strongly and securing a place in the knockout rounds.

Victory over Panama would guarantee top spot in Group L and extend England's unbeaten run at the tournament.

James' fitness, however, is likely to remain one of the biggest talking points for the team in the coming days.

BBC Sport reports that there are real concerns that England could be without their first-choice defender after the group stage as Tuchel awaits further information on a hamstring problem.