The 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign of the England national football team gathered momentum as the Three Lions defeated the Panama national football team 2-0 to finish at the top of Group L and book their place in the Round of 32.
After a frustrating first half in New Jersey, England finally broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute when Jude Bellingham turned in a corner to score the opening goal. Just five minutes later, Bellingham turned provider, delivering a cross that was headed home by captain Harry Kane to double England's lead.
Kane's strike was historic, taking his World Cup tally to 11 goals and making him England's all-time leading scorer in World Cup history, surpassing the previous record of 10 held by Gary Lineker.
Despite dominating possession, England struggled to convert their chances early on, while Panama had a few opportunities of their own and even saw one effort ruled out for offside. However, the quality of Bellingham and Kane proved decisive as manager Thomas Tuchel guided his side to another important victory.
The victory means England advance to the knockout stage as Group L winners and will face the DR Congo national football team in the Round of 32. Panama, meanwhile, bowed out of the tournament without scoring a single goal, becoming the only team in the competition to end their campaign goalless.
