Bellingham and Kane Fire England to 2-0 Win Over Panama, Secure Group Supremacy

England secured top spot in their World Cup group with a composed 2-0 victory over Panama , driven by second-half goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane at a rain-soaked MetLife Stadium on Saturday.

In a match played under persistent rain and in front of a loud pro-England crowd that gave the venue a Wembley-like atmosphere, the Three Lions endured a frustrating first half where clear chances were rare. Panama defended in numbers and kept England unusually quiet, with Kane registering just 10 touches , the fewest of any player before the break.

The breakthrough arrived in the 62nd minute when England capitalised on a set piece. From a Bukayo Saka corner , Bellingham showed sharp instincts inside the six-yard box, stretching to divert the ball past goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera despite close marking from Jorge Gutiérrez . It was his third World Cup goal and his second of the tournament.

England doubled their advantage just five minutes later in a move that highlighted their attacking fluency. Bellingham turned provider this time, delivering a precise cross from the left flank. Harry Kane rose above Andrés Andrade to power a header into the net, sealing the contest and marking a personal milestone in the process.

The goal took Kane’s World Cup tally to 11, making him England’s all-time leading scorer in the tournament , surpassing Gary Lineker . It was also his 82nd international goal, further underlining his importance to the national side.

With the win, England not only maintained their unbeaten run in the group stage but also positioned themselves for what appears to be a more favorable route in the knockout rounds, carrying momentum and confidence into the next phase of the competition.