World Cup 2014: England's possible route to glory - taking in Spain, Germany and Brazil
We take a look at the path Roy Hodgson's side would likely take to the final in Rio
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.After today's draw in which England were placed in the 'Group of Death' against Uruguay, Italy and Costa Rica, the odds on Roy Hodgson's side winning the tournament quickly lengthened.
Not only do they face an incredibly tough group - but the possible path to the final at the Maracana looks just as daunting.
If England were to win Group D, they would most likely play Ivory Coast or Japan in Recife. Next up would probably be a quarter-final against holders Spain in Salvador. If they somehow negotiated their way past Andres Iniesta and Xavi, they would then play Germany, who beat them at Wembley last month, in the semi-finals. If the Three Lions roar into the final, Brazil would be awaiting.
If England do make it out of Group D - it's more likely it will be as runners-up considering the strength of opposition they're up against. Colombia are the favourites to win Group C so they would await in the Last 16 stage. A match against Brazil in Fortaleza would be next, before Argentina and Lionel Messi in the semi-finals. If they escaped Belo Horizonte with a victory, it would just be the small matter of Spain in the final.
WORLD CUP 2014 INTERACTIVE GUIDE: The groups, fixtures, route to the final, venues and past winners
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments