The World Cup 2026 group stage ends tonight with four decisive Group L and Group K matches. Here are previews, predictions and betting tips for each game.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage signs off tonight with a bang. Four matches across two groups run simultaneously in the early hours of Sunday morning (WAT), with Ghana, DR Congo, England, Croatia, Colombia and Portugal all fighting to seal their places in the knockout rounds. It is the most dramatic final group-stage night of the tournament so far, and Nigerian fans will not want to miss a second of it.
Here is your complete guide to every match, with kick-off times in WAT, team context and our betting tips.
Before we get to tonight’s big games, Group D and Group I wrapped up their final matchdays earlier on June 27:
Group D:
– Paraguay 0-0 Australia
– Türkiye 3-2 USA — a stunning result that sends Türkiye through and eliminates the co-hosts
Group I:
– France 4-1 Norway — Les Bleus dominate and win their group with ease
– Senegal 5-0 Iraq — an emphatic Senegal performance that sends the Lions of Teranga into the last 32 in style
It was a great day for Senegal in particular, who join Morocco, South Africa and now Ghana (pending tonight) as potential African survivors in this expanded 48-team tournament.
### Croatia vs Ghana — Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
Situation: Ghana 2nd (4 pts), Croatia 3rd (3 pts)
This is the match that matters most to Nigerian fans. Ghana need only a draw to advance. Croatia must win. It is a game of contrasting imperatives — Ghana will defend their position, Croatia must attack and create.
Our Tip: Ghana Draw or Win (Double Chance) — ~1.55 on SportyBet / Bet9ja
Ghana’s defensive shape under Otto Addo has been the best of any African team so far. Mohammed Kudus provides the outlet on the counter, Thomas Partey screens the midfield. Croatia have Modrić, but at 40 he cannot do it all. We back Ghana to qualify.
Prediction: Ghana 1-1 Croatia
### England vs Panama — MetLife Stadium area (East Rutherford)
Situation: England 1st (4 pts, already through), Panama eliminated (0 pts)
England will use this as a warm-up for the knockout stage, rotating and managing minutes. Panama have been the worst team in Group L — zero points, zero goals scored, two conceded. Expect England to win comfortably.
Our Tip: England to Win and Both Teams NOT to Score — ~1.70 on Bet9ja
Panama have not scored in either of their previous games. Even a rotated England side should keep a clean sheet.
Prediction: England 3-0 Panama
### Colombia vs Portugal — Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens
Situation: Colombia 1st (6 pts), Portugal 2nd (4 pts)
The Group K headline fixture. Colombia have been the most consistent side in the group, taking maximum points from their first two games. Portugal are in second with 4 points and Cristiano Ronaldo will be desperate to make an impression. This could be a classic.
Our Tip: Both Teams to Score — ~1.80 on SportyBet
Both sides have goals in them. Colombia’s Luis Díaz has been in outstanding form. Portugal have Ronaldo, Fernandes and Leão. An open, entertaining game is expected.
Prediction: Colombia 2-2 Portugal
### DR Congo vs Uzbekistan — Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
Situation: DR Congo 3rd (1 pt, 0 GD), Uzbekistan eliminated
DR Congo need a win — and ideally a big one — to have any chance of progressing as one of the eight best third-placed teams. Uzbekistan are already out and have nothing to play for. This is the Leopards’ chance to put a strong scoreline on the board.
For more on DR Congo’s World Cup campaign, see our DR Congo World Cup 2026 guide.
Our Tip: DR Congo to Win and Over 2.5 Goals — ~2.80 on Bet9ja
With Uzbekistan eliminated and DR Congo desperate for goals, this game should be open and high-scoring. DR Congo’s attacking talent should shine against tired opponents.
Prediction: DR Congo 3-0 Uzbekistan
Tonight completes the group stage of the 2026 World Cup. The Round of 32 begins on July 1. For our accumulator picking the best cross-game bets, check our World Cup 2026 Accumulator Tips for June 27. For betting platform options, visit Nigeria’s top betting sites.
Responsible gambling: Betting should be for entertainment only. Only bet what you can afford to lose. If gambling is affecting you, contact the NLRC helpline.
⚡ Back today’s picks: Mozzartbet — ₦50,000 Free Bet + 500 Aviator Free Bets. Read our Mozzartbet review or claim the offer now.
18+. New customers only. T&Cs apply. Please gamble responsibly.
