World Cup 2026: Wednesday Roundup — England Thrash Croatia as Colombia Cruise
FIFA World Cup 2026 | Match Day Roundup — Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Wednesday's World Cup action delivered a mix of drama, dominant performances, and a late-group-stage shake-up, as eight nations took to the pitch across Group K and Group L.
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Group L
England 4–2 Croatia
England put on a commanding display to dismantle Croatia 4–2 in a Group L clash that will draw inevitable comparisons to their nations' storied World Cup history. The Three Lions were relentless in attack, running up a four-goal haul that leaves them well-placed to advance from the group stage. Croatia, despite showing flashes of their trademark resilience with two goals of their own, could not contain an in-form England side. It was a statement performance from Gareth Southgate's successor's men.
Ghana 1–0 Panama
In the other Group L fixture, Ghana edged out Panama in a tight, hard-fought contest that ended 1–0. The Black Stars' solitary goal proved enough to claim all three points, with Panama unable to find an equalizer despite pushing forward in the second half. The result keeps Ghana firmly in contention for a knockout-round berth.
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Group K
Portugal 1–1 DR Congo
Portugal were held to a frustrating 1–1 draw by a determined DR Congo side in Group K. The African outfit proved a stubborn opponent, matching Portugal for large stretches of the match and earning a well-deserved point. The result leaves Portugal's group standing tighter than expected, and Cristiano Ronaldo and company will need to regroup ahead of their next fixture.
Colombia 3–1 Uzbekistan
Colombia were the standout performers of the day, cruising to a convincing 3–1 victory over Uzbekistan. Los Cafeteros were fluid and clinical throughout, with their attacking play too much for the Central Asian side to handle. Uzbekistan pulled one back but were ultimately outclassed. The result puts Colombia in a strong position at the top of Group K.
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Group Standings Outlook
With matches now complete, Colombia and England emerge as the day's big winners, while Portugal's dropped points open the door for rivals in Group K. All eyes now turn to the next round of fixtures as the group stage heats up.
Stay tuned for continued World Cup 2026 coverage.