England secured top spot in Group L at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a controlled 2-0 victory over Panama in their final group stage match in New Jersey.
After a cagey first half in which Panama frustrated the Three Lions with a disciplined defensive display, England eventually found the breakthrough shortly after the hour mark when Jude Bellingham flicked home from a corner to end the deadlock.
The lead was doubled just five minutes later as Harry Kane rose to power home a header from a Bellingham delivery, putting the result beyond Panama and ensuring England finished the group phase on a high note.
Panama attempted to respond and thought they had found a route back into the contest, only for their effort to be ruled out for offside. England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford was also called into action late on to preserve his side’s clean sheet.
England manager Thomas Tuchel rotated his squad for the encounter, making five changes to the side that drew with Ghana in their previous outing, but his team still produced enough quality to secure all three points.
The victory ensured England progressed to the Round of 32 as Group L winners, while Panama exited the tournament without a point from their three matches.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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