England
England's route to the World Cup final has become clearer after Brazil shattered Japanese dreams, mounting a comeback to snatch victory in stoppage time. It appeared the Three Lions were set for a significant boost after Japan seized the lead in the opening period, leaving the Seleção facing potential elimination.
A first-half strike from Kaishu Sano handed the underdogs the advantage just before the half-hour mark, moments after the widely criticised hydration break. The Mainz midfielder dispatched a low, accurate finish into the bottom corner from distance, catching Brazil cold after they surrendered possession carelessly near the halfway line.
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Yet Brazil hit back just over 10 minutes into the second half when former Manchester United midfielder Casemiro thundered home a header at the far post following a dangerous cross from Gabriel. Newcastle United star Bruno Guimaraes then teed up Gabriel Martinelli deep into added time to clinch it at the last gasp.
The Three Lions could now meet Brazil in the quarter-finals in Miami, should they overcome the victor of Ivory Coast versus Norway in the round of 16. Thomas Tuchel's men are scheduled to take on DR Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday, July 1 in their opening knockout fixture after winning Group L with victories over Croatia and Panama, plus a draw against Ghana.
Should they overcome DR Congo, England will meet either Mexico or Ecuador in Mexico City in the last 16 on July 6, which could present a challenging test given the venue's altitude.
The Three Lions would then take on one of Brazil, Norway or the Ivory Coast in Miami on July 11, following Japan's elimination from the tournament.
Should England progress past one of Brazil, Norway or the Ivory Coast in the quarter-final, Argentina are likely to stand between them and a place in the final on July 15, barring any significant shocks in that section of the draw.
Lionel Messi and his team-mates face Cape Verde in their round of 32 fixture, with a match against the victor of Australia versus Egypt awaiting in the last 16.
The reigning world champions would then meet one of Switzerland, Algeria, Colombia or Ghana in the quarter-finals. The showpiece final is scheduled for July 19 at the Met Life Stadium in New Jersey.
England are well aware they may need to navigate penalty shootouts during the knockout phase, and goalkeeper Jordan Pickford is prepared for whatever comes their way.
"It ramps up now, doesn't it?" he said when asked about the looming knockout stages. "It's a proper phase of football. One game at a time.
"There are lads who have won Champions Leagues, lads who have been in youth tournaments with England. Everyone knows the pressure of it and I think that is where you will see us thrive.
"We've got our goal. You take it step by step, you work on the training pitch you keep that enjoyment and keep that fun environment, but once you're training, you're working, you take the messages in and for me that's the glue really."