​Jude Bellingham opened the scoring as England eventually wore down a stubborn Panama, sealing top spot in their World Cup group. The Real Madrid midfielder struck just after the hour in New Jersey, and Harry Kane added a late goal to secure a 2-0 win. After the match, Bellingham said England had achieved their immediate objective of winning the group but stressed that there is still plenty of room for improvement before the knockout rounds. England finished Group L on seven points, with performances that fluctuated from the thrilling 4-2 victory over Croatia to tougher challenges against Ghana and Panama, highlighting areas Thomas Tuchel’s side must refine to mount a serious title challenge.
Bellingham acknowledged the need to keep raising their level. “We know what level we are at and what we want to achieve, and we did in the second half. Every day we have to try to improve, and it’s up to us to do that,” he told ITV. The win also saw captain Harry Kane become England’s all-time leading World Cup scorer with 11 goals. Bellingham paid tribute to Kane, saying it was an honor to play with him and that Kane is “the best England player of all time.” He added that Kane’s influence is undeniable and that he continually makes a difference in games.