Problem for England, nothing new for Reece: Chelsea captain injured again

Minor troubles on the pitch, a bigger problem off the pitch.

With four points won in two games, England have already qualified for the knockout phase of the 2026 World Cup. Still, the top of the group is yet to be secured, as the unexpected draw against Ghana slightly complicated the Three Lions' position.

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Only slightly, as victory over Panama tonight (00.00) should see Thomas Tuchel's side finish top of the group.

Unfortunately, they'll have to fight the decisive battle without Reece James, who has picked up yet another hamstring injury - 10th in the last five and a half years. The Chelsea captain suffered the same injury back in March, keeping him out for six weeks.

Given that Tuchel sees him as his first-choice right-back, James played the full 90 minutes against both Croatia and Ghana, which may have contributed to the recurrence of the injury.

Early indications are that the 26-year-old will miss the match against Panama as well as the Round-of-32 game. Djed Spence is expected to replace him, as he is now England's only natural right-back, as Tino Livramento has already been ruled out through injury, while Trent Alexander-Arnold was not included in the squad.

In the other Group L match, Ghana will face Croatia and will need at least a point to secure second place. Even with a defeat, the Black Stars would still advance as one of the eight best third-placed teams.

WORLD CUP - GROUP STAGE (ROUND 3)

Group L

Sunday

00.00: (1.85) Croatia (3.50) Ghana (4.40)

00.00: (14.0) Panama (6.75) England (1.20)

***odds are subject to change***