The results that will see Gareth Southgate’s England eliminated from the World Cup

Gareth Southgate’s England side are still in pole position to qualify for the knockout stages after their bitterly disappointing draw against the USA on Friday evening.

In what was a cagey affair, the Three Lions failed to create any meaningful chances as they produced a lacklustre performance on football’s biggest stage.

Christian Pulisic went closest for the Americans as he rattled Jordan Pickford’s crossbar in the second half.

The draw means that England are yet to secure their place in the last 16 and could still be eliminated if they lose to Wales.

At the moment, England are top of Group B with four points, Iran are second with three points, USA are third with Wales currently bottom with just one point.

Southgate’s side also has a far more superior goal difference after their opening 6-2 victory over Iran.

Despite their strong position, there is still a possibility that England could be sent packing after the next round of matches.

For that to happen, Wales would have to thrash England by at least four goals.

If Southgate’s men beat Wales, they will secure top spot in the group. If England draw against Wales, they will finish top unless Iran beat the USA or the USA beat Iran by five or more goals.

However, if England were to lose to Wales by four or more goals, they will be nervously looking at the USA vs Iran match.

For example, if England lose 4-0 and Iran draw with USA, Southgate’s men will go through in second place.

Alamy

But if England lose 4-0 and there is a winner in the Iran USA match, the Three Lions will be heading home. With Wales going through.

Although it is unrealistic that Wales will put four past England, Rob Page’s side have nothing to lose and stranger things have happened on a football pitch before.

In terms of potential last 16 opponents, it is likely that the Netherlands will finish top of Group A, which means they will face the team that finishes second in England’s group.

Whilst Ecuador and Senegal are in a straight shootout for second place in Group A, meaning one of them will take on the side that finishes top in England’s group.