We don’t have to wait any longer to see some action at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the tournament kicking off in full swing this week. On Thursday, we witnessed the latest iteration of the best-on-best tournament opening with Mexico wrapping up an entertaining little 2-0 win over South Africa, and Korea Republic picking up a 2-1 win over the Czech Republic.
Some of the big guns of this tournament will be in action over the coming days, but former Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Manchester United star Zlatan Ibrahimovic has locked his attention onto one specific group.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic Gets Real on England’s Chances at 2026 FIFA World Cup
Appearing on a Fox Sports panel alongside another legend of the game in Thierry Henry, Ibrahimovic said that he’s keeping an eye on Group L for one specific purpose.
“In Group L, we have England. Is it coming home? Let’s see,” Ibrahimovic said with half a smirk.
Which group does @Ibra_official have his eyes on closely this summer? 👀 pic.twitter.com/grtfeDg4BD
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) June 11, 2026
“We have Croatia, I have some roots in Croatia, so I’m supporting them in this tournament. Then we have Ghana with big talents, let’s see what they bring.”
However, the former striker served a word of caution to minnows Panama.
“We have Panama, unfortunately, in this group. I think they will be a punching bag where England and Croatia will fight for the first spot, and Ghana might disturb them and take some points. I don’t wanna be disrespectful, but this is difficult.”
In a battle of Group L titans, England will open their World Cup campaign against Croatia on Wednesday in Dallas.
All eyes will be on if Thomas Tuchel can finally get this Three Lions side firing on all cylinders. With names like Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, and Declan Rice spearheading the charge, there’s little doubt that England have the requisite firepower to go toe-to-toe with any team in this World Cup.
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England’s spine has also been in spectacular form over the club football season, but it remains to be seen if they can carry that form into the tournament.
With Spain, Brazil, Argentina, and France among the favorites at the World Cup, the English have their work cut out for them to break into that top-four layer. But per usual, scrutiny will follow Tuchel’s side all tournament long.
