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England made their mark on the World Cup with an impressive win over Croatia in the Group L opener.
Despite losing the lead twice in the first half, England came out of the blocks in the second with an intensity that Croatia simply couldn't handle.
The energetic approach paid dividends immediately, with Jude Bellingham scoring a fine goal just two minutes into the second half on the back of a 23-pass move from the Three Lions. Marcus Rashford made sure of the result with five minutes of normal time to go, and it's a crucial three points in the bag for Thomas Tuchel's side.
England could face Portugal in World Cup knockout stage
Given Croatia was always going to be England's sternest test in the group stage, at least on paper, the Three Lions will fancy their chances of topping Group L.
If that is the case, England will face whoever finishes third in Group K, a group which includes Portugal, Colombia, DR Congo, and Uzbekistan.
Naturally, facing a team like Portugal so early in World Cup 2026 would not be ideal for England.
That's especially true given the long history of disappointment and misery at the hands of one Cristiano Ronaldo.
Back in Euro 2004, England lost on penalties to Portugal after a 2-2 draw in normal time.
Then, in World Cup 2006, it was Wayne Rooney's red card that was the main talking point as the Three Lions again lost a penalty shootout to Ronaldo and co.
Of course, many neutrals would expect Portugal to go and beat Uzbekistan, but a clash with Colombia will be far more challenging.
There's a good chance Portugal don't end up in third place in Group K.
Facing DR Congo or Uzbekistan would be more favourable, of course, while Colombia are a team that many in this England squad have already proven they can beat.
After that England performance vs Croatia, surely Tuchel's men will fear no one... not even Ronaldo himself.
