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Head coach Thomas Tuchel before England's 2-0 victory over Panama in the final group L match of the 2026 World Cup at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA, on 27/6. Photo: Reuters
"The World Cup now restarts for England with the knockout rounds. We will recover physically, strengthen our morale and belief. The better we will play as we get into bigger matches", Tuchel stated after the match at MetLife Stadium on 27/6.
Panama, already eliminated after two losses, impressed with their pragmatic style of play. The Central American team defended deep, maintained a compact formation, and conceded only two goals. Across their first two matches, games involving Panama featured a total of 32 shots, the fewest in the tournament.
Similar to Ghana and Croatia, England faced difficulties against Panama's packed defense. The "Three Lions" only eased the pressure and decided the match in the second half. Jude Bellingham scored from close range to open the scoring, then delivered a cross for Harry Kane to head diagonally, sealing a 2-0 victory. This result secured England's top spot in group L, placing them in an easier draw without championship contenders such as Spain, Germany, France, or the Netherlands.
"We did what we needed to do", Tuchel added. "This was a challenging match where scoring was difficult. We were the only team to score two goals against Panama. The players played aggressively but remained cautious against counter-attacks. We deserved the win, but it was a tough match".
Bellingham scores the opening goal.
When asked about Harry Kane becoming England's leading scorer at World Cups with 11 goals, Tuchel responded simply, "That is good, but it is not the end".
Regarding squad fitness, Tuchel confirmed that Bukayo Saka has no significant issues, while Declan Rice was rested after receiving a yellow card to avoid risks in the knockout round. Meanwhile, Jarell Quansah left the field due to injury and requires further assessment. "We play our next match in three days, but that is not an issue. We are accustomed to this pace of play", Tuchel said about the upcoming round of 16 match at Mercedes-Benz, Atlanta, on 1/7.
Bellingham stated that England had achieved their first objective in the tournament. The 22-year-old midfielder also revealed he was more satisfied with the assist than the goal, while praising his senior teammate Kane. "It is great to combine and assist Harry. He is constantly raising his game and is the best striker", Bellingham expressed.
Kane assessed that England lacked sharpness in the final third during the first half but improved in the second. The team captain also lauded Bellingham's current form and expressed his desire to extend his World Cup scoring record.
Kane seals the 2-0 victory.
In contrast, Roy Keane downplayed England's victory, suggesting the "Three Lions" only truly made a difference when their stars stepped up after halftime. "That was not a pretty performance", the former Man Utd midfielder commented on ITV. "But Bellingham and Kane delivered when it mattered, and that is what you need in tight matches".
Gary Neville also remarked that Bellingham is the most in-form player, adding that England needs to improve significantly. "Tuchel said the team will play better against big opponents, and they will have to prove that. He certainly could not have left the field feeling everything was perfect", the former England defender stated.
By Hong Duy
