Three changes Thomas Tuchel must make for England ahead of the Panama clash | OneFootball

England face Panama in their final group game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at New York New Jersey Stadium on Saturday evening.

The Three Lions need a victory to finish as Group L winners following their goalless draw against Ghana last time out.

Read on as we look at three changes manager Thomas Tuchel should make ahead of the fixture.

Switch to an attacking 4-3-3 formation

Tuchel has stuck with his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation so far, but he would be better served switching to a more attacking 4-3-3 against Panama.

The North American side are likely to deploy a low block, as Ghana did, meaning England should commit more bodies forward.

There is little need for a double pivot against a side that offers little attacking threat. The two full-backs should also be given more licence to push higher up the pitch.

Bring Kobbie Mainoo in for Declan Rice

Rice has not enjoyed the bright start to the tournament. He has also been playing with a hamstring injury for six months, casting doubt over his fitness.

The Arsenal midfielder should be rested ahead of the round of 32 and should be replaced by Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo.

Mainoo adds energy and drive to the midfield and that would prove crucial in breaking down Panama’s defensive set-up.

Hand Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford starting berths

Antony Gordon and Noni Madueke have played as the two wingers in England’s opening two games, but have been largely disappointing.

Tuchel likes effective wing combinations and cannot afford to have two struggling wide forwards.

Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford should replace the duo as they provide greater attacking threat.