2018 FIFA World Cup: England ‘s Group G Fixtures

England are currently preparing to travel to Russia for this summer’s World Cup Finals, with Gareth Southgate’s side having qualified with relative ease. The Three Lions have been drawn alongside Tunisia, Panama and Belgium in Group G, with their final encounter with Roberto Martinez’s men having already been earmarked to determine who will finish top of the standings. Let’s take a look at their Group G fixtures, with Harry Kane set to lead out England against Tunisia in their opening clash on June 16th.

England vs Tunisia – June 16th – Volgograd Arena

In a repeat of their opening clash from the 1998 World Cup in France, England take on Tunisia in their first match of the tournament, with Southgate’s men taking on the African side in Volgograd. Tunisia qualified for the Finals for the first time since 2006, although they are not expected to cause many upsets in Russia. Former Sunderland winger Wahbi Khazri is perhaps their most recognisable player, with manger Nabil Maaloul having taken over back in 2017. The two teams have not met since their encounter in 98, with goals from Alan Shearer and Paul Scholes helping England to earning three points that day. England are the 4/11 favourites with Ladbrokes to record an opening victory over Tunisia.

England vs Panama – June 24th – Nizhny Novgorod Stadium

Just over a week after their first Group G encounter, England head to Nizhny Novgorod in order to take on World Cup debutants Panama, with Kane & Co looking to avoid one of the biggest shocks in the tournament’s history. The duo have never before met in any form of fixture, with many of Panama’s players being based in the MLS and major South American leagues. However, with Panama also being ranked 55th in the FIFA world rankings, nothing but three points will do for manager Southgate, as well as those watching from back in the UK. England are priced as the 1/6 favourites for victory with William Hill, while a surprise success for Panama is available to back at 18/1 on the same platform.

England vs Belgium – June 28th – Kaliningrad Stadium

England’s final Group G match see’s them come up against European rivals Belgium, who undoubtedly have one of the strongest squads in the entire competition. The match will see many Premier League players going head-to-head, with the England defence undoubtedly set to keep a close eye on the likes of Romelu Lukaku and Eden Hazard. England have lost just twice against Belgium in their history, as well as having 15 wins to their name. However, it is Belgium who are the narrow favourites for victory, with bookmaker Paddy Power offering Roberto Martinez’s men odds of 7/5.