Bellingham and Kane fire England into last‑32

England booked their place in the World Cup last‑32 with a controlled 2–0 win over Panama at the MetLife Stadium, thanks to second‑half strikes from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane. On a rain‑soaked afternoon in New Jersey, Bellingham finally broke the deadlock on 62 minutes, reacting sharply to a Bukayo Saka corner. The Real Madrid midfielder then turned provider, delivering a precise cross for Kane to head home England’s second.

Kane’s goal, his third of the tournament, also made him England’s all‑time leading World Cup scorer with eleven. Despite Panama’s disciplined low block, England gradually imposed themselves after a sluggish first hour that revived concerns following the goalless draw with Ghana. Marcus Rashford impressed early, forcing saves and threatening from set pieces, while Panama rarely troubled Jordan Pickford.

England top Group L with seven points, avoiding Spain and setting up a last‑32 tie in Atlanta on July 1 against DR Congo.