Group L brings together a mix of established powerhouses and ambitious underdogs for the 2026 World Cup. England enters as clear favorites while Croatia looks to build on past deep runs. Ghana and Panama aim to cause upsets in a group that features intriguing opening matches on June 17.
England's Position and Stars
England comes into the tournament with a strong squad featuring attacking talents like Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham. Their recent form has shown consistency in major tournaments where they reached the semifinals in 2018 and the final in 2024. The market says England has a 69% chance to win the group and a 95% chance to advance. With a record of 0-0 they face Croatia first on June 17 before taking on Ghana and Panama.
Croatia's Experience and Outlook
Croatia relies on veterans such as Luka Modric to guide the team through tough fixtures. They reached the World Cup final in 2018 and have shown resilience in knockout stages historically. The market says Croatia has a 22% chance to win the group and an 82% chance to advance. Their record stands at 0-0 ahead of the June 17 clash with England and later games against Panama and Ghana.
Ghana's Ambitions in the Group
Ghana brings pace and flair with players like Mohammed Kudus looking to shine on the global stage. Past appearances include a quarterfinal run in 2010 that highlighted their potential against top sides. The market says Ghana has a 6% chance to win the group and a 46% chance to advance. Their record is 0-0 as they prepare for Panama on June 17 followed by England and Croatia.
Panama's Underdog Challenge
Panama returns to the World Cup after their 2018 group stage appearance seeking to compete against stronger opponents. The team focuses on defensive organization and counter attacks in key moments. The market says Panama has a 3% chance to win the group and a 33% chance to advance. With a record of 0-0 they open against Ghana before facing Croatia and England.
Group Dynamics and Fixtures
The schedule features Croatia versus England on June 17 alongside Panama versus Ghana on the same day. Later matches include Ghana versus England and Croatia versus Panama on June 23 with England versus Panama and Ghana versus Croatia closing the group on June 27. These games will test depth and tactics as teams chase the two advancement spots. England holds the edge according to the percentages while Croatia aims to secure second.
Prediction
Market percentages are live Polymarket prices as of June 11, 2026 and update continuously on the embedded markets above.
