New York: England secure top spot in World Cup group after Panama win

By Arjun Nair / 28.06.2026

By Arjun Nair — 28 June 2026 — 3 min read

England defeated Panama 2-0 in New York, securing their position at the top of Group L in the World Cup. Goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane in the second half sealed the victory for Thomas Tuchel‘s side.

The match saw England facing a resilient Panama team, which had been regeared by former Leeds manager Thomas Christiansen. Panama, despite exiting the tournament with zero points, displayed a measure of pride, having reached the quarter-finals of the 2024 Copa América and the final of the 2025 Concacaf Nations League.

The first half of the game was marked by a lack of clear opportunities for England. Tuchel‘s tactical approach involved pushing Bellingham into a deeper role and utilising Morgan Rogers as the number 10, with Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford on the wings. Jarell Quansah started at right-back, filling in for the injured Reece James, while Declan Rice was rested due to a knock and a yellow card.

Early in the match, Rashford forced a save from Orlando Mosquera, and Saka had an effort blocked by Jorge Gutiérrez. Panama, playing in a compact 5-4-1 formation, did not sit deep, making it challenging for England to break through. Jordan Pickford made a crucial save in the 26th minute from a José Luis Rodríguez effort, after Quansah had left space open.

Second-Half Breakthrough and Key Performances

The second half saw England improve their performance. Tuchel maintained faith in his starting eleven, and the breakthrough came from a corner. Saka delivered the ball, and Bellingham converted with an expertly steered low volley, giving England the lead. This goal was a significant moment, though Tuchel‘s reaction was noted as being annoyed rather than celebratory, indicating his concerns about the overall display.

Bellingham continued to be influential, driving up the inside-left and delivering a cross for Kane to head home England‘s second goal. This marked Kane‘s 11th World Cup goal, surpassing Gary Lineker‘s record for the nation. Bellingham‘s performance, including his goal and assist, highlighted his role as England‘s X-factor.

Several players delivered notable performances. Elliot Anderson, playing as the starting number six, effectively kept the ball moving in midfield and injected pace into England‘s attacks. Jordan Pickford made a good save in the first half, despite a couple of loose clearances. Bukayo Saka consistently posed a threat with the ball and his quality deliveries from corners proved to be a weapon for England.

Marcus Rashford showed flashes of pace and forced a good save in the first half, always suggesting a potential threat. Harry Kane, initially quiet, became more involved as the game opened up, ultimately scoring England‘s second goal to secure the win.

Substitutions and Tactical Adjustments

During the second half, England made several substitutions. Djed Spence replaced the injured Jarell Quansah in the 63rd minute. Noni Madueke came on for Bukayo Saka, providing pace and keeping the Panama defence alert. Eberechi Eze replaced Jude Bellingham in the 71st minute, and Ollie Watkins came on for Harry Kane in the 84th minute to give the captain a rest.

Jordan Henderson was also introduced in the 84th minute, brought on to see out the game with his experience. These changes allowed England to manage the game effectively after establishing a commanding lead.

Despite the win, Tuchel has aspects to consider, particularly regarding the team’s overall display. The match highlighted concerns about how England might perform against elite-level teams in the knockout rounds. However, securing top spot in Group L means England has achieved the first phase of their World Cup campaign.

Panama, despite their efforts, had a goal disallowed for offside late in the game. The match was played in rainy conditions with temperatures around 23C.

Source: bbc.com