England defeated Panama 2–0 in their final Group L match at the New Jersey Stadium, ensuring they advanced to the Round of 32 as group leaders. Despite already qualifying for the knockout stage, Thomas Tuchel’s team needed a win to confirm first place. Panama’s strong defense frustrated England in the first half, but Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane scored in the second half to seal the victory.

Bellingham opened the scoring in the 62nd minute with a side volley from Bukayo Saka’s corner. Panama missed a golden chance to equalize shortly after, and England captain Kane doubled the lead five minutes later with a header from Bellingham’s cross. The goal made Kane England’s all-time top scorer in World Cup history with 11 goals, surpassing Gary Lineker’s record. Bellingham, aged 22 years and 363 days, also became the youngest English player since 1966 to score and assist in the same World Cup match.

England finished the group stage with seven points, while Panama exited the tournament without scoring a goal, becoming the first team in 16 years to leave a World Cup goalless.