England and Portugal World Cup 2026 update as England target last 32 qualification against Ghana while Portugal seek first win against Uzbekistan

England are on the brink of securing a place in the last 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as they prepare to face Ghana, while Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo look to revive their campaign with a crucial clash against Uzbekistan.

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England head into their Group L encounter with Ghana knowing that victory will guarantee progression to the knockout stages after a strong start to their tournament.

The Three Lions opened their campaign with an impressive 4-2 win over Croatia, a result that has strengthened confidence within the squad as they target a first major international title in 60 years.

Captain Harry Kane scored twice in the opening match, while Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham also found the net in a performance that underlined England’s attacking threat.

Midfielder Declan Rice said the team must maintain consistency if they are to challenge for the title.

“We know as players the level, we know what’s required, and that second-half performance was probably the benchmark for us in terms of having to start the game at that level,” Rice said.

“We believe that if we can do that from the opening minute, with the players that we also have to come on and finish the game, we can beat any opponent in the world.”

England manager Thomas Tuchel has also urged his players to embrace the pressure of a World Cup campaign, stressing the importance of handling expectations at the highest level.

“There are emotions involved and you can at some point feel the tension and feel the pressure. I hope we can cope with it, accept it and turn it around,” Tuchel said.

England will, however, be wary of Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo, who has emerged as a key attacking threat for the Black Stars following their opening win over Panama.

Ghana, who claimed a 1-0 victory in their first match, could also seal qualification to the knockout rounds with another win in Foxborough.

Elsewhere, Portugal are under pressure to respond when they face Uzbekistan in Houston after a disappointing start to their campaign.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s side opened their tournament with a 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo, a result that raised further questions about their form.

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez has continued to back the 41-year-old forward despite criticism over his recent goal drought at major tournaments.

“He’s a good example for us, for all of us,” Martinez said.

“So he really wants to keep on improving, to contribute to the team, and he’s really a role model for our team.”

Martinez, however, did not confirm whether Ronaldo would start the upcoming fixture, saying team selection had not yet been communicated to players.

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Portugal, considered one of the pre-tournament favourites, will be aiming for their first victory of the competition as they seek to avoid an early setback in their World Cup campaign.