- Recent form: England have won their last 3 matches in all competitions, including the 4-2 World Cup win over Croatia.
- World Cup opener: Panama lost 1-0 to Ghana in their World Cup opener.
England can overwhelm Panama at New York/New Jersey Stadium
Panama will look to get their first points in the 2026 FIFA World Cup against England when the two sides clash at New York/New Jersey Stadium on Saturday in a Group L game which will have major implications for the group stages. The Three Lions lead Group L with 3 points from a possible 3 after their opening fixture against Croatia, while Panama sit 3rd without a point after playing their first game.
With both teams coming into this match off contrasting results – England cruised to a 4-2 win over an impressive Croatia side while Panama were stifled in a 1-0 defeat to Ghana – it's worth noting that the Canal Men were away in their loss to the African side.
Panama's approach
Thomas Christiansen's Panama are a shape-focused team, disciplined and hard to get the better of when they get men behind the ball and get numbers into the box. They will look to counter and hurt England on the break, particularly from set-pieces where José Fajardo will be their outlet up top. Adilberto Carrasquilla anchors the midfield, offering both verticality in possession and disciplined ball-winning when out of it.
Panama will try to keep the game central and compact, but England have the creativity to unlock any defense on the wings.
England strengths
There is a lot of attacking momentum in the Three Lions right now and they should be able to dominate the ball in New York. England have won 3 straight games, including their 4-2 win over the Croatians, and Panama's recent form has been mixed with 2 wins, 1 draw and 2 defeats from their last 5 in all competitions.
- Thomas Tuchel has brought a structure-first mentality to England and their pressing and build-up play have improved markedly since the German was appointed.
- Bukayo Saka and Phil Foden offer a creative spark and dynamism on the flanks which should trouble Panama's defense, but it's Harry Kane who will be the talisman for England.
- The Spurs striker has 2 World Cup goals in 1 game and scored 3 of England's last 9 goals in all competitions.
Prediction
We're taking England to win comfortably in this game as Panama will struggle to create enough clear chances to trouble the England defense. The odds on England to take the 3 points are too short at 1.25, but we can find value in the 'both teams to score – No' bet at 1.63.
