England secured a 2-0 victory over Panama in their final Group L match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, finishing as group winners. Jude Bellingham scored the opening goal in the 62nd minute, poking in a corner from Bukayo Saka, before assisting Harry Kane's header five minutes later. Kane's goal made him England's all-time leading World Cup scorer with 11 goals, surpassing Gary Lineker's record of 10. England will now face one of the eight best third-placed teams in the Round of 32.
The match was played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where England struggled in the first half before Bellingham's impact in the second half. Manager Thomas Tuchel made five changes to the starting lineup, including first starts for Bukayo Saka, Morgan Rogers, Marcus Rashford, and Jarell Quansah. Panama, who lost all three group matches, finished bottom of Group L.
Kane reflected on the match, stating, 'A solid performance again, against a side with fast, tricky players. They had little moments but overall we controlled it pretty well.' England's victory ensures they avoid a potentially tougher knockout path, having finished ahead of Croatia on goal difference.
The win also marked a significant milestone for Kane, who has been in outstanding form this season, breaking Robert Lewandowski's record for most goals in a single season by a German Bundesliga player. Bellingham's performance was praised for turning the game around, with pundits noting his energy and creativity in the second half.