England’s ceiling is still unpredictable.
But their reality might end much sooner.
The path is brutal: Mexico at the Azteca, likely Brazil in the quarterfinals, potentially Argentina in the semifinals, and then probably Spain or France in the final.
That is a nightmare route.
England has the talent to make a run. Harry Kane is still delivering huge moments. Jude Bellingham can take over matches. Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford, Declan Rice and the rest of the squad give England one of the deeper teams left in the tournament.
But after barely surviving DR Congo, it is fair to question whether England is sharp enough to survive this road.
Mexico at the Azteca is not just another Round of 16 game. It is one of the hardest environments in world football. The crowd, altitude, pressure and momentum will all favor Mexico. England may have more individual talent, but this matchup feels dangerous.
If England somehow wins that, Brazil likely waits. Then Argentina. Then France or Spain.
So yes, England is capable of making a run.
But honestly, I think they lose to Mexico at the Azteca.
