England 2-0 Panama: Bellingham and Kane Fire Three Lions to Top of Group L

England 2-0 Panama: Bellingham and Kane Fire Three Lions to Top of Group L

The match was goalless at half-time, but England controlled possession and created the better chances against a disciplined Panamanian side. England had nine shots in the first half, with Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka looking particularly dangerous, while Panama remained a threat on the counter and forced Jordan Pickford into a save.

Panama, who had lost their first six World Cup matches, held firm for nearly an hour against the European power. The breakthrough finally arrived in the 62nd minute when Jude Bellingham met Bukayo Saka's corner with a clever finish, poking the ball past goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera from close range.

Five minutes later, Bellingham turned provider, delivering an excellent cross from the left flank for Harry Kane to head home. The goal gave England a two-goal cushion and saw Kane become his country's leading World Cup scorer with 11 goals, surpassing Gary Lineker's record of 10. England finished the group with two wins and a draw for seven points, while Panama finished bottom without a point.

Thomas Tuchel's side will face DR Congo in the Round of 32 in Atlanta on July 1. England's biggest concern was an injury to right-back Jarell Quansah, who was forced off and replaced by Djed Spence.