BY KUNLE SOLAJA.

England will look to continue their march towards the knockout rounds when they face Panama, a side they famously overwhelmed 6-1 at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

The meeting in Nizhny Novgorod remains one of England’s most emphatic World Cup victories, with Harry Kane scoring a hat-trick and John Stones adding a brace in a dominant display. Eight years later, Panama return hoping to produce a far more competitive performance against one of football’s traditional powers.

England have once again arrived at the tournament with lofty expectations and possess one of the deepest squads in the competition. Their attacking options have impressed in the group stage, while the defence has shown increasing solidity.

Panama, meanwhile, continue to embrace the underdog tag that served them well during their maiden World Cup appearance in 2018. The Central Americans know that a positive result against England could significantly boost their chances of progressing from the group.

While history favours England heavily, Panama will take encouragement from the unpredictability that has characterised several matches at the expanded 2026 World Cup.

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BY KUNLE SOLAJA.

Goals may be scarce when Croatia and Ghana meet in a clash that pits two of the tournament’s most organised defensive units against each other.

Croatia have built a reputation for discipline and resilience on the world stage, keeping five clean sheets in their last eight FIFA World Cup group-stage matches. The Balkan side once again appear difficult to break down and will rely on their experienced midfield to control proceedings.

Ghana, under the guidance of veteran coach Carlos Queiroz, have also become a difficult proposition. The Portuguese tactician has overseen seven clean sheets in his 15 matches as a FIFA World Cup head coach, underlining his emphasis on defensive structure.

The Black Stars are seeking a result that could strengthen their qualification hopes, while Croatia are determined to maintain their reputation as one of the tournament’s most consistent performers.

With both teams prioritising organisation and tactical discipline, the encounter could be decided by a single moment of quality or a set-piece opportunity.

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BY KUNLE SOLAJA.

Algeria have the opportunity to achieve a World Cup milestone when they take on Austria in a crucial Group stage encounter.

The North Africans are aiming to record back-to-back FIFA World Cup victories for the first time in their history, a feat that would further underline their growing stature on football’s biggest stage.

Standing in their way is an Austrian side that has traditionally performed well against African opposition at the World Cup. Austria are unbeaten in their two previous finals encounters against teams from the continent and will be eager to preserve that record.

Algeria’s confidence has risen after a positive start to their campaign, with their attacking players showing the flair and pace that have become trademarks of the Desert Foxes.

Austria, however, possess a well-balanced side capable of controlling possession and punishing defensive mistakes. The Europeans know that victory could place them in a strong position ahead of the final round of group matches.

The contest promises to be a fascinating battle between Algeria’s ambition and Austria’s historical confidence against African opposition.

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