England secured the top spot in Group L of the 2026 World Cup with a 2-0 victory over Panama on Saturday, June 27, in a rain-soaked match held in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The win solidified England’s position with seven points from two wins and one draw, while Panama was already eliminated prior to the match, finishing the group with zero points.

The match remained scoreless in the first half, with limited opportunities for either side. The breakthrough came in the second half when midfielder Jude Bellingham opened the scoring, followed by an assist that set up striker Harry Kane for England’s second goal. Kane’s tally marked a milestone, as he became England’s all-time leading World Cup goalscorer with 11 goals, surpassing the previous record held by Gary Lineker.

England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford contributed to the clean sheet with two key saves, helping the team maintain defensive solidity. On the other side, Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera was credited with four saves despite the defeat. The Panamanian team, competing in their second World Cup, now holds an overall tournament record of zero wins, six losses, and no draws.

In the other Group L match, Croatia defeated Ghana 2-1, resulting in all three teams—England, Croatia, and Ghana—advancing to the knockout stage. England is scheduled to play their round of 16 match on Wednesday in Atlanta against an opponent finishing third in another group, yet to be determined.

With a strong group performance, England enters the knockout rounds as one of the group winners, while Panama’s tournament ended without points. The stage is now set for the next phase of competition as the World Cup progresses.