Bellingham, Kane Inspire England's 2-0 Win Over Panama Past Panama

England secured first place in Group L at the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a composed 2-0 victory over Panama at New York New Jersey Stadium. Second-half goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane ensured Thomas Tuchel's side advanced to the Round of 32 as group winners.

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Despite dominating possession, England found it difficult to break down Panama's disciplined defence in the opening half. Marcus Rashford came closest before the break, forcing a fine save from goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera and later heading over from an Elliot Anderson cross.

Panama also threatened on the counterattack, with Jose Luis Rodriguez testing Jordan Pickford after breaking down the left flank, but the England goalkeeper was equal to the effort.

The breakthrough arrived in the 62nd minute when Jude Bellingham held off his marker and volleyed home from Bukayo Saka's corner to score his second goal of the tournament. The midfielder then turned provider, delivering a pinpoint cross for Harry Kane, who headed in his 11th FIFA World Cup goal to surpass Gary Lineker as England's all-time leading men's World Cup scorer.

Kane had earlier been denied by an outstanding save from Mosquera, while Panama thought they had pulled one back late on through Jose Fajardo, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside.

Panama exit the tournament without a point or a goal despite producing an encouraging performance and registering several attempts on goal.

England now advance to the Round of 32, where they will face a third-placed team from Groups E, H, I, J or K in Atlanta on 1 July.

Chosen by the fans: Jude Bellingham, your @MichelobUltra Superior Player of the Match. 👑

#FIFAWorldCup #SuperiorPOTM pic.twitter.com/Jp7YWJ8o6t

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 27, 2026

Player of the Match: Jude Bellingham (England)