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A full preview of England at the 2026 World Cup, covering their history, recent form, key players, qualification and what supporters can expect this summer.
England head to the 2026 World Cup carrying the hopes of a nation that senses its moment may finally be near. After a run of deep tournament appearances and near-misses, the Three Lions arrive in North America among the strongest contenders. The 2026 edition is the first 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico across 16 host cities, with the opener on June 11 at the Estadio Azteca and the final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium. For England, it is a golden opportunity to convert promise into a first World Cup title since 1966.
A history of hope and heartbreak
England's World Cup story is defined by one glorious summer and decades of yearning since. The 1966 triumph on home soil remains the only time the Three Lions have lifted the trophy. The years that followed brought iconic moments and painful exits, from the heartbreak of Italia 90 to a series of penalty shootout agonies.
More recently, England have rebuilt belief. A semi-final in 2018 and a quarter-final in 2022 showed genuine progress, and a young, gifted generation has restored optimism. The narrative heading into 2026 is clear: this is a team expected to challenge, not merely participate.
Recent form and squad strength
England's qualifying campaign through the European section reflected their growing maturity, combining solid results with the emergence of exciting attacking talent. The squad blends established internationals with a wave of young players who have flourished at the highest club level, giving England arguably their deepest pool of talent in a generation.
The challenge, as ever, is turning individual quality into a cohesive, tournament-winning unit. Build-up fixtures have been about finding the right balance and identity. Follow England's full schedule and results on our fixtures page throughout the tournament.
Key players to watch
England's attacking riches are striking. Jude Bellingham, a midfield talisman who has shone on the biggest stages in club football, is the heartbeat of this side, capable of driving England forward and producing decisive moments. Captain Harry Kane, England's all-time leading scorer, remains a relentless goal threat and a vital leader.
On the wings, Bukayo Saka offers pace, directness and end product, while Phil Foden brings creativity and intelligence in the final third. With talented options across every line, England's depth is one of their biggest weapons. Explore full player profiles and the confirmed squad on our teams hub.
The group stage challenge
The 2026 format places England in one of 12 groups of four. The top two from each group, plus the eight best third-placed teams, advance to a 32-team knockout bracket. As one of the seeded nations, England will be expected to top their group and build momentum before the knockouts. You can track the group tables as they develop on our standings page once matches kick off.
Qualification and tournament outlook
England qualified with the authority expected of a top European side and arrive ranked among the world's best, a position you can see for yourself on our FIFA ranking page. The expanded format means more matches and a longer path to the final, which can favour squads with strength in depth. England's challenge will be managing that extended run while peaking at the right time.
Expectations are high, and so is the pressure. England's recent tournaments have shown they can go far, but the final step has proved elusive. In 2026, with a settled core and a fearless young generation, supporters will demand a serious push for the trophy.
What to expect this summer
Expect England to be organised, attacking and backed by a passionate travelling support. The emotional pull of a long-awaited title, combined with a talented squad in their prime years, makes this one of the most anticipated England campaigns in decades. The pieces are in place; the question is whether they can finally come together when it matters.
Follow the Three Lions live
From the group stage to the latter rounds, our live scores bring you every England goal, card and result the moment it happens. For squad news, tactical previews and player form, bookmark our teams section and stay ahead of every twist. England's quest to end the wait begins in North America, and it promises to be a summer to remember. Follow the journey with us from the very first whistle.
