England-Scotland knockout path remains possible as World Cup permutations tighten

England and Scotland are currently projected to meet in the World Cup last 16 in Mexico City, with England top of Group L and Scotland third in Group C. That scenario is not fixed, with both teams still affected by their own final group games and results elsewhere.

The expanded 48-team format means 32 nations reach the knockout stage: the top two from each of the 12 groups plus the eight strongest third-placed teams. That creates a wider range of outcomes than in previous tournaments, especially for sides sitting third going into the last round.

Scotland’s position is a good example of the uncertainty. They face Brazil, who lead Group C on goal difference ahead of Morocco, and a win would secure automatic progress; otherwise, Scotland may have to rely on the third-place table. England’s final Group L match against Panama is also part of the shifting bracket picture.

BBC Sport has built a live projection tool to track the knockout schedule as matches unfold. Editors should treat any projected tie, including England v Scotland, as provisional until final group standings and tiebreakers are confirmed.