Bellingham, Kane fire England into knockout stage as group winners

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

England secured top spot in Group L at the FIFA World Cup with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Panama on Saturday, sealing their place in the Round of 32 with an unbeaten group-stage campaign.

After being frustrated for much of the first half by a disciplined Panamanian defence, the Three Lions eventually found their breakthrough in the second half through Jude Bellingham before captain Harry Kane added a second to ensure Thomas Tuchel’s side finished the group as winners.

England dominated possession from the opening whistle and created a series of chances, with Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka and Harry Kane all testing Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera before the interval.

Panama, however, proved dangerous on the counterattack and nearly stunned England midway through the first half when José Rodríguez forced Jordan Pickford into an impressive save after breaking into the penalty area.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 62nd minute when Bellingham reacted quickest to Bukayo Saka’s corner, firing home from inside the box to give England a deserved lead.

Buoyed by the opener, England continued to press and doubled their advantage five minutes later. Bellingham turned provider, delivering an inviting cross for Kane, who powered home from close range to score his first goal of the match and effectively end Panama’s resistance.

Tuchel freshened his side in the closing stages, introducing Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke, Jordan Henderson, Djed Spence and Ollie Watkins as England comfortably controlled proceedings.

Panama thought they had pulled one back in stoppage time when José Fajardo found the net, but the effort was ruled out for offside, denying the Central Americans a late consolation.

The victory ensured England finished atop Group L, ahead of Croatia, while Panama exited the tournament without a point after suffering defeats in all three group matches.