New York: Second-half goals from midfielder Jude Bellingham and captain Harry Kane guided England to a hard-earned 2-0 victory over Panama, securing top spot in Group L of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Playing in wet and challenging conditions at New Jersey Stadium, England finished the group stage with seven points from two wins and a draw. While the scoreline suggested a comfortable victory, Panama made the Three Lions work hard for all three points.
England manager Thomas Tuchel made five changes to the side that drew with Ghana, introducing an attacking trio of Morgan Rogers, Marcus Rashford, and Bukayo Saka. Despite dominating possession, England struggled to break down a disciplined Panama side during a goalless first half.
Rashford came closest for England before the break, driving into the penalty area and unleashing a powerful shot that was brilliantly saved by Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera. Moments later, a header from England’s attack sailed narrowly over the crossbar.
Panama also threatened on the counterattack. Luis Rodríguez tested England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, who reacted sharply to preserve the deadlock.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 62nd minute when Bellingham met a floated cross from Saka with a superb volley inside the box, giving England the lead and ending Panama’s stubborn resistance. Five minutes later, Kane doubled the advantage, effectively putting the result beyond doubt.
The match also marked a significant milestone for Pickford, who made his 15th World Cup appearance for England. He moved ahead of several legendary England internationals and now trails only Peter Shilton in World Cup appearances for the national team.
Tuchel Confident Ahead of Knockout Stage
Following the victory, Tuchel praised his team’s patience and determination.
“We did exactly what was required. Panama were a difficult opponent, but we found a way to win. Jude made a huge contribution to this result. The tournament now enters the knockout phase, and we will continue to build on our strengths. The bigger the challenge, the better we can become,” he said.
Bellingham: “We Achieved Our First Objective”
Match-winner Bellingham expressed satisfaction at England’s group-stage campaign.
“Our first objective was to qualify for the Round of 32 as group winners, and we’ve achieved that. We knew the level of performance we wanted, and the two goals in the second half reflected that. We want to keep improving with every game, and that depends on us,” he said.
Croatia Edge Ghana to Reach Round of 32
In Philadelphia, Croatia booked their place in the Round of 32 with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ghana.
Goals from Petar Sučić and Nikola Vlašić helped Croatia finish second in Group L with six points from three matches. Although a draw may have been enough to keep their qualification hopes alive, Croatia ensured progression with a determined performance.
Sučić opened the scoring in the 31st minute with a spectacular long-range strike from nearly 30 yards. Ghana pushed for an equalizer and eventually found one in the 73rd minute through Derek Lukason, who converted a free kick.
However, Croatia responded quickly. Vlašić headed home from a corner delivered by veteran captain Luka Modrić, restoring Croatia’s lead and securing a crucial victory.
The result sends Croatia into the knockout stage with momentum, while England advance as Group L winners after an impressive and unbeaten group campaign.
