Jude Bellingham was the standout performer as England beat Panama 2-0 to top Group L, with Harry Kane also breaking the Three Lions' all-time World Cup scoring record by surpassing Gary Lineker
John Cross
10:30, 28 Jun 2026Updated 10:36, 28 Jun 2026
Jarell Quansah started England's World Cup game with Panama
Jarell Quansah started England's World Cup game with Panama(Image: Getty Images)
Jude Bellingham propelled England to the summit of Group L, as Harry Kane simultaneously became the Three Lions' all-time leading goalscorer at World Cup finals, eclipsing Gary Lineker, in a 2-0 triumph over Panama.
The outstanding Bellingham opened the scoring with a clever hooked effort from a corner on 62 minutes to break the deadlock following a labored opening hour from Thomas Tuchel's side. Bellingham, operating in a deep midfield role, was excellent throughout, and moments after finding the net, he turned creator, setting up skipper Kane to nod home his third goal of the competition.
The English were considerably below their peak during a fairly lackluster first half, where they struggled to find their rhythm and appeared vulnerable at the back.
However, they seized control after the interval and arguably should have prevailed by a greater margin as the match opened up in the closing stages and opportunities were squandered.
It wasn't entirely positive news, however, as the England right-back jinx struck once more. Former Liverpool star Jarell Quansah limped off with a muscle problem, casting serious doubt over his participation in the remainder of the World Cup. That right-back position is rapidly becoming a significant concern.
Thomas Tuchel's players now travel to Atlanta on Wednesday, where they'll meet DR Congo in the Round of 32. Before that, here are the player ratings from the New York/New Jersey Stadium...
Jude Bellingham celebrates scoring against Panama
Jude Bellingham celebrates scoring against Panama(Image: Getty Images)
England Player Ratings
Jordan Pickford 6: Some uncertain moments in possession but was largely untested.
Jarell Quansah 6: England's injury woes struck once more. Yet another right-back option lost. Departed the pitch nursing a knock.
Ezri Konsa 6: Read the danger well but England were perhaps left too vulnerable on the counter-attack.
Marc Guehi 7: Composed and assured, reading the warning signs with authority. Has firmly cemented his spot.
Nico O'Reilly 6: Fitted into midfield seamlessly and therefore his contribution from the left was difficult to fault.
Elliot Anderson 6: Excellent in possession, tidy and clearly developing as a footballer.
Jude Bellingham 8: Cometh the hour, cometh the man. He scored and provided an assist. England's main man.
Bukayo Saka 7: Produced some fine moments and flashes of brilliance, ultimately rewarded with a corner assist.
Morgan Rogers 6: Improved as the match progressed, though this performance confirmed that when it comes to a choice involving Bellingham, there is only ever one outcome.
Marcus Rashford 7: Considerably more effective than Gordon on the left flank. Lively and threatening throughout. Fully justified his inclusion.
Harry Kane 7: Broke Gary Lineker's World Cup goals record as he got back on the score sheet. Big goal.
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Substitutes: Noni Madueke (Saka, 63 mins) 6, Djed Spence (Quansah, 63 mins) 6, Eberechi Eze (Bellingham, 71 mins) 6, Jordan Henderson (Anderson, 83 mins) N/A, Ollie Watkins (Kane, 83 mins) N/A.