England and Portugal will seek to finish the FIFA World Cup group stage on a positive note as the final round of matches takes place on Saturday, with the remaining places in the knockout rounds still to be decided.
Both teams have produced mixed performances in their opening two matches, combining periods of quality with inconsistent displays.
England eye Group L summit with Panama win
England, level on four points with Ghana in Group L, face Panama at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. A victory would strengthen their chances of finishing top of the group.
Portugal meet Group K leaders Colombia in Miami, knowing only a win will lift them above the South Americans into first place.
England opened their campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia in Dallas before being held to a goalless draw by Ghana. Moreover, England manager Thomas Tuchel expects another difficult contest against Panama, who are likely to defend in numbers.
"It's a team that is difficult to break down. They've hardly allowed any chances," Tuchel said before the match.
"We see a well-coached, well-drilled team with a clear identity. The world ranking is on the same level as Wales and Serbia.
"It's not the most famous football nation, but they can embrace the underdog role and play without pressure."
England face fresh title questions
England have already secured qualification for the knockout rounds, but failure to defeat Panama would increase scrutiny over their prospects of challenging for the title.
Tuchel insisted his side will approach the knockout phase with confidence.
"I'm not scared," he said. "We feel confident enough to compete against any team. We focus on what we can influence."
Portugal began the tournament with a 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo before responding with a 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan, with captain Cristiano Ronaldo scoring twice.
Victory over Colombia could hand Portugal a more favourable opponent in the round of 32.
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez said his team are focused solely on the Colombia match.
"The focus is to win the game and not think about the next opponent," Martinez said. Following Friday's matches, only four places in the last 32 remain available, with 28 teams already through.
Iran await fate after Egypt draw
Iran remain among the teams waiting to learn their fate after drawing 1-1 with Egypt. A late goal that would have secured qualification was ruled out for offside.
The draw confirmed Egypt's place in the round of 32 despite concerns over Mohamed Salah, who left the match with an apparent thigh problem.
Egypt coach Hossam Hassan said the injury was not serious after speaking with the forward.







