Who’s next? A look at England’s potential second-round opponents

Who’s next? A look at England’s potential second-round opponents

England are through to the last 16 of the World Cup but will only discover their opponents after the final round of group fixtures.

Here, Press Association Sport looks at the sides they could face.

Japan

Shinji Kagawa has impressed in Japan's midfield
Shinji Kagawa has impressed in Japan’s midfield (AP)

Style: A fluid and counter-attacking side, with Shinji Kagawa and Makoto Hasebe moving the ball in midfield and looking to feed wingers Genki Haraguchi and Takashi Inui. Impressive going forward but a weak defence can be left exposed.

Look out for: Shinji Kagawa, Takashi Inui, Shinji Okazaki

Verdict: One to face

Senegal

Sadio Mane is key for Senegal
Sadio Mane is key for Senegal (Adam Davy/Empics)

Style: Another attractive side based on pace and power but with a bit of steel in midfield. Liverpool forward Sadio Mane is their chief threat up front but 19-year-old right-back Moussa Wague looks a handful out wide, charging forward and delivering dangerous crosses.

Look out for: Sadio Mane, M’Baye Niang, Moussa Wague

Verdict: One to face

Colombia

Radamel Falcao was on target as Colombia returned to form with an impressive defeat of Poland
Radamel Falcao was on target as Colombia returned to form with an impressive defeat of Poland (AP)

Style: A top-heavy attacking side that exploits its strengths with quick and incisive link-up play. The forwards in their 4-2-3-1 line-up, including 2014 tournament star James Rodriguez, boast individual quality to rival the best teams in the competition.

Look out for: Radamel Falcao, Juan Cuadrado, Juan Quintero

Verdict: One to avoid

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