The second round of group stage fixtures at the 2026 World Cup concludes on Tuesday with four matches, as Croatia and Portugal look to boost their chances of reaching the knockout rounds. England, however, are already firmly on course after a convincing opening win.
Portugal vs Uzbekistan: Pressure on Ronaldo and Co
Portugal underwhelmed in their opening fixture against the Democratic Republic of Congo, managing only a 1-1 draw. That result puts pressure on Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates to claim all three points against Uzbekistan in Houston. Roberto Martínez may consider changes to the lineup, but dropping his superstar could be a difficult decision.
Uzbekistan, playing their first-ever World Cup game, lost 3-1 to Colombia, highlighting a lack of top-end talent. Manager Fabio Cannavaro's side will aim to frustrate Portugal, but they may lack the counterattacking threat that DR Congo posed. Bruno Fernandes, the Manchester United midfielder, could be key for Portugal in creating chances from open play.
England vs Ghana: Three Lions look to continue momentum
England produced arguably the most complete performance of any main contender in their opening match, putting four goals past Croatia. Thomas Tuchel's side have shown they are well-drilled and entertaining, a marked difference from the Gareth Southgate era. Harry Kane scored a brace and was also England's most effective creator in the final third.
Ghana needed a late winner from Caleb Yirenkyi to overcome Panama in their opener, but their overall performance was less than convincing. England may even be able to rest key players and still take another step forward in their campaign. The match kicks off at 4pm ET in Boston.
Panama vs Croatia: Both sides in need of points
Panama suffered stoppage-time heartbreak in their opener against Ghana, meaning Thomas Christiansen's side need at least three points from their final two group games against Croatia and England to realistically progress. Croatia, meanwhile, showed glimpses of their talent even in a 4-2 defeat to England. Zlatko Dalić's team are firm favourites to secure three points, although concerns remain over the age profile of the squad. Petar Musa, who scored against England, is expected to keep his place as starting striker.
Colombia vs DR Congo: South Americans aim for knockout rounds
Colombia took a big step towards the knockout rounds by beating Uzbekistan in their opener, and they will fancy their chances against DR Congo, especially if Luis Díaz performs as he did. DR Congo defended well in their 1-1 draw with Portugal and posed a meaningful counterattacking threat. They may have more possession in this match, which could shift the dynamic. Luis Díaz, the Bayern Munich winger, is Colombia's primary difference-maker.
How to watch Tuesday's World Cup matches
All four matches are available on various broadcasters and streaming services. In the United States, Fox, FS1, and Telemundo will show the games, with streaming on Fubo. Canadian viewers can watch on TSN, while UK fans can tune into ITV1 and BBC One. Australian viewers have access via SBS.
