England can qualify for the knockout stages of the World Cup with a game to spare, should they beat the USA tonight.
Gareth Southgate's side face the USA at 7pm in their second Group B clash. The Three Lions enjoyed a commanding 6-2 win against Iran on Monday, with goals from Bukayo Saka (2), Jude Bellingham Raheem Sterling, Marcus Rashford and Jack Grealish handing them a dream start.
The group's other opening game saw Wales and the USA draw 1-1, and with Rob Page's side losing at the death to Iran this morning, England are in a commanding position going into this evening.
Simply put, England will progress from Group B in first or second place, should they beat the USA tonight. That would take them on to six points from their two matches, top at the end of the day and three points clear of Iran in second. Should they manage just a draw tonight, a win in the final group game against the Dragons on Friday would also be enough.
Southgate's side would also likely progress into the knockout stages with two draws against the USA and Wales, taking them on to five points - the maximum that the USA could possibly get - and with a superior goal difference.
No doubt Southgate and his squad will want to get it done early and keep qualification in their own hands, however, and a win tonight should all but settle top-spot going into the final fixtures. That would guarantee them a round-of-16 tie with the second-placed team from Group A, which is likely to be one of Ecuador or Senegal.
READ NEXT
Saudi Arabian government speak out on potential Liverpool takeover
Besiktas have Dele Alli replacement 'agenda' with Everton January return posed
FSG may be forced to make major Liverpool change after Julian Ward exit
'What a power' - Belgian media raves after Everton's Amadou Onana World Cup debut
When is the FA Cup third round draw? TV channel, time, Everton and Liverpool ball numbers
