England’s route to World Cup final and likely opponents after topping Group B

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    After a nervy opening 45 minutes, England secured their passage into the knockout stages as group winners, after a resounding second half display against Wales.

    A smashing brace from Marcus Rashford, including an incredible free-kick, and a first ever World Cup goal for Phil Foden ensured Gareth Southgate’s side avoided Louis van Gaal’s Netherlands team, who comfortably topped Group B.

    However, the hard work is barely beginning for the Three Lions who will have to navigate their way through some real powerhouses if they are to end their barren trophiless run.

    Under Southgate, England have reached the semi-final of the 2018 World Cup and the final of Euro 2020. After their place in the knockout stages was secured, Daily Star Sport, considers England’s likely path if they are to reach the World Cup final for the first time since 1966.

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    Senegal await the Three Lions in the round of 16 stage. On December 4, England will take on the reigning African Cup of Nations champions at the Al Bayt Stadium, in Al Khor.

    It will be the first ever meeting between the two sides at the World Cup and it promises to be a tantalisingly tense match for the two nations. If Harry Kane and Co are able to overcome the African giants, they will likely need to navigate their way past reigning champions France.

    Didier Deschamps’ side endured an early exit at the round of 16 stage at Euro 2020, but they are one of three sides to have secured their place in the knockout stages after only two matches. Of course, France will need to overcome the runner-up of a very tight Group C which, at this current moment, is Argentina.

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    England will likely need one of their best ever World Cup performances if they are to keep out Kylian Mbappe and his other world class team-mates. Should Southgate secure a memorable victory over the French, another meeting with Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo could beckon in the semi-final.

    The Three Lions were knocked out in the quarter finals of Euro 2004 and the quarter finals of the 2006 World Cup by the Portuguese in the dreaded penalty shootouts. Ronaldo would most likely relish the opportunity, as the only surviving member from both of those unforgettable matches between the two nations.

    Germany and Belgium are also potential opponents at this stage, but the two European nations have had poor World Cups so far and would do well to make it that far.

    Should England get some significantly overdue revenge on the Portuguese and reach their first final in 56 years, one of Brazil or Spain could be waiting in the final at the Lusail Iconic Stadium on December 18.

    If England navigate their way past them, then, well, it will be the airport for them and the pub for the whole country as football would have finally come home!

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    • World Cup
    • England Football Team
    • Gareth Southgate

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