England made sure of first place in Group L as second-half goals by Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane earned their second win of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ at New York New Jersey Stadium.

The Three Lions had memorably thrashed Panama 6-1 when the teams met at Russia 2018, but this rainy encounter proved to be a far closer contest as Thomas Christiansen’s team frustrated the English attack for over an hour.

Directing the Travel in Rainy New York

Following England’s recent stalemate against Ghana, coach Thomas Tuchel shook things up by making five changes to his starting lineup. The adjustments gave attacking trio Morgan Rogers, Marcus Rashford, and Buk Bukayo Saka their first starts in North America.

It was Rashford who produced England’s most notable threats during a scoreless first period. The winger cut inside early on to draw a full-stretch save from Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera, before later heading over at the far post from an Elliot Anderson cross.

The wet conditions were familiar to England, but so too was the frustrating scenario of dominating possession while struggling to break down well-drilled opponents. Panama grew in confidence and very nearly nicked an opener just after the first-half hydration break. José Luis Rodríguez broke into space down the left flank and unleashed a powerful strike, forcing Jordan Pickford to smartly turn the ball behind at his near post.

Second-Half Breakthrough and History for Kane

The main direction of travel continued toward Panama’s goal after the interval. Mosquera produced a spectacular flying save to deny Harry Kane, but Panama’s resistance finally cracked in the 62nd minute.

Bellingham provided the vital moment of magic, holding off his marker to prod the ball home on the volley from a Saka corner kick.

Just five minutes later, England doubled their advantage. The team’s number 10 turned provider, lofting a precise cross into the area for Kane, who rose highest to power home a header. The goal marked Kane’s 11th career World Cup goal, officially moving him past previous record-holder Gary Lineker.

Looking Ahead to the Round of 32

Panama refused to throw in the towel and thought they had secured a late consolation, but José Fajardo’s strike was quickly ruled out for offside. Despite reaching double figures for goal attempts during the match, Panama heads home without a point or a goal from the tournament.

For Tuchel’s men, the mission was accomplished. As Group L winners, a Round of 32 tie against one of the best third-placed teams from Group E, H, I, J, or K awaits them in Atlanta on Wednesday, July 1.