England's opening match saw an explosive second-half performance, securing a 4-2 victory over Croatia. However, the team then struggled against Ghana, a familiar pattern. The "Three Lions" registered 19 shots without scoring, their highest tally in a World Cup match in 24 years. Coach Thomas Tuchel's side also held 78.9% possession, the highest in World Cup history for a team failing to score since 1966.

Panama, despite early elimination after two losses, impressed with their pragmatic approach. The Central American side defended deep, maintaining a compact formation and conceding only two goals. Across their first two matches, Panama's games saw a total of just 32 shots, the lowest in the tournament.

Jude Bellingham scored the opening goal in England's 2-0 victory over Panama in their final Group L match of the World Cup 2026 at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey, US, on 27/6. Photo: Reuters

Coach Thomas Tuchel made five changes to the starting lineup compared to the Ghana match. Reece James was out due to injury, and Declan Rice was rested. Jarell Quansah and Morgan Rogers received starts, while Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford made their first appearances in the starting one.

Marcus Rashford proved a rare bright spot in England's subdued first half. The Manchester United forward created three notable chances, starting in the 7th minute. He cut in from the left wing and unleashed a low shot, forcing goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera into a diving save. Following the cooling break, Rashford continued to threaten with a header over the bar from an Elliot Anderson cross, then sent a free-kick wide of the post in stoppage time.

The pressure on England was relieved in the second half, thanks to Jude Bellingham. In the 62nd minute, from Bukayo Saka's left-wing corner, the Real Madrid midfielder, despite tight marking, managed to extend his left foot and strike towards the near post. The powerful shot left goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera rooted, watching the ball fly into the net.

*Bellingham scored the opening goal.

Just five minutes later, Bellingham again made a significant impact. He received a long pass on the left wing, controlled it neatly, executed two step-overs, and delivered a precise cross into the penalty area. Harry Kane, perfectly positioned, headed the ball diagonally to extend England's lead to 2-0. This goal made Kane England's all-time leading scorer in World Cup history with 11 goals, surpassing Gary Lineker's record of 10.

Bellingham, who had humbly stated he didn't deserve the Man of the Match award against Ghana, left no doubt about his performance this time. The Real Madrid midfielder was the standout player, contributing a goal, an assist, and an energetic display across both ends of the pitch.

*Kane sealed the 2-0 victory.

By winning Group L with a 2-0 victory, England avoided a knockout bracket that included championship contenders such as Spain, Germany, France, or Netherlands. In the round of 16, Coach Tuchel's squad will face the third-place team from Group I, J, or K – most likely Senegal or DR Congo – at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta on 1/7.

Should they advance, England will play the winner of the match between Mexico and the third-place team from Group C or E in the round of 8 in Mexico City on 5/7. If they overcome that challenge, the "Three Lions" could then face Brazil, Japan, Ivory Coast, or Norway in the quarterfinals.

In Group L's other match, Croatia defeated Ghana 2-1 to secure second place. They will face the Group K runner-up – either Portugal or Colombia – in the round of 16. Ghana, despite the loss, advanced with four points as one of the eight best third-place teams.

Hong Duy