England Beat Panama 2-0 as Harry Kane Breaks World Cup Scoring Record
England Beat Panama 2-0 as Harry Kane Breaks World Cup Scoring Record
Bellingham and Kane Strike in Second Half to Seal Top Spot in Group L
England secured top spot in Group L at the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Panama, thanks to second-half goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
After a frustrating first half in which Panama defended resolutely and even threatened on the counterattack, England finally found the breakthrough after the hour mark.
Jude Bellingham opened the scoring in the 62nd minute, cleverly toe-poking Bukayo Saka's corner into the net at the near post. The goal lifted the pressure on England, who had struggled to convert their dominance into clear chances.
Just six minutes later, England doubled their advantage through captain Harry Kane. Bellingham turned provider with a superb cross into the penalty area, and Kane rose highest to power a header beyond the Panama goalkeeper.
The goal was a historic one for the Bayern Munich striker, taking his tally to 11 FIFA World Cup goals and making him England's outright all-time leading scorer in World Cup history, surpassing the previous record of 10 goals held by Gary Lineker.
Panama thought they had pulled a goal back late in the game when José Fajardo found the net, but the effort was ruled out for offside following a VAR review.
Despite Panama's disciplined performance and several dangerous moments, England controlled much of the match and deservedly claimed all three points.
The victory sees Thomas Tuchel's side finish top of Group L with seven points, while Panama exit the tournament without registering a point or a goal.
Match Result
England 2-0 Panama
Goals
Jude Bellingham – 62'
Harry Kane – 68'
Historic Record
Harry Kane becomes England's all-time leading FIFA World Cup goalscorer with 11 goals, surpassing Gary Lineker's previous record of 10.
England now advance to the Round of 32 as Group L winners and will face Senegal in the knockout stage as they continue their pursuit of World Cup glory.
