England recovered from a slow start to beat Panama 2-0 on Sunday and finish top of Group L at the FIFA World Cup.
After a dull first half, Thomas Tuchel’s side found another gear after the break. Jude Bellingham broke the deadlock before Harry Kane doubled the lead just minutes later to seal England’s third win of the tournament.
Bellingham opened the scoring early in the second half to settle England’s nerves. The midfielder then turned provider with a perfect cross that Kane powered home with a trademark header.
The goal was another milestone for Kane, who became England’s all-time leading World Cup scorer with 12 goals, moving past Gary Lineker.
Panama tried to respond and thought they had pulled one back in stoppage time when Ismael Diaz found Cecilio Waterman Fajardo, who beat Jordan Pickford. However, the offside flag ruled the goal out after a tight call.
England created further chances to extend their lead, with Marcus Rashford missing a late opportunity at the back post, but the two goals were enough to secure all three points.
The victory ensured England finished as Group L winners and avoided a tougher knockout path. Tuchel’s men will now face either Senegal or DR Congo in the round of 32, while Croatia finished second even after their win against Ghana.
