Kane breaks World Cup record as England beat Panama to top Group L

England booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage as Group L winners after a professional 2-0 victory over Panama at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Saturday. Goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane in the second half ensured Thomas Tuchel’s side finished top of the group and maintained their unbeaten run in the tournament.

After a thrilling 4-2 win over Croatia in their opening match and a frustrating goalless draw against Ghana, England entered the contest under pressure to deliver a convincing performance. However, the Three Lions struggled to find rhythm in the opening hour against a disciplined Panama side determined to frustrate one of the tournament favorites.

Despite dominating possession, England lacked creativity in the final third during the first half. Marcus Rashford, making his first start of the World Cup, came closest to scoring when his powerful effort forced a fine save from Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera. Rashford also headed over from close range before curling a free-kick narrowly wide in first-half stoppage time.

Panama, meanwhile, defended bravely and occasionally threatened on the counterattack. Jose Luis Rodriguez tested Jordan Pickford with a low drive, but England’s goalkeeper was equal to the challenge.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 62nd minute. Bukayo Saka delivered a dangerous corner into the box, and Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham rose above his marker to guide the ball into the net. The goal lifted the intensity of England’s play and opened spaces that had been difficult to find throughout the match.

With Panama forced to push forward, England struck again midway through the second half. Bellingham turned provider this time, sending a precise cross into the penalty area where captain Harry Kane powered home a header to double the lead. The goal was Kane’s third of the tournament and his 11th in World Cup history, making him England’s all-time leading scorer at the competition.

The victory means England finish top of Group L with seven points, avoiding a potentially difficult last-16 clash and strengthening hopes of a deep run in the tournament. While Tuchel’s side has yet to hit top gear consistently, the result confirms their progress and keeps their World Cup dream firmly alive.

In the group’s other match, Croatia defeated Ghana 2-1 to secure second place and advance alongside England, while Scotland’s World Cup journey came to an end.