England secured a 2-0 victory over Panama at the New York-New Jersey Stadium to finish top of Group L with seven points in the 2026 World Cup. Despite the win, Thomas Tuchel's side made hard work of the match against the minnows.
Match Overview
England remain undefeated in North America after an exhilarating 4-2 win over Croatia in their opener, a 0-0 bore draw with Ghana, and this hard-fought victory. The result ensures England advance to a Round of 32 clash with African giants Senegal on Wednesday at 5pm.
Player Ratings
Here is how the England players rated against Panama:
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Starting XI
- Jordan Pickford 6 – Some uncertain moments with the ball but was largely untested.
- Jarell Quansah 6 – England's injury jinx struck again as another right-back option was ruled out. Departed injured.
- Ezri Konsa 6 – Sensed the threat well but perhaps England were left vulnerable on the break too frequently.
- Marc Guehi 7 – Cleared up, spotted the warning signs and displayed plenty of composure. Has secured his spot.
- Nico O'Reilly 6 – Fitted into midfield and therefore you could hardly fault his contribution from the left.
- Elliot Anderson 6 – Excellent with the ball, cleaned up effectively and is clearly developing as a player. Let's see if £116m represents good value.
- Jude Bellingham 8 – Cometh the hour, cometh the man. He netted and supplied an assist. Gary Neville on ITV Sports said he was England's "one player in form". Quite. England's key figure.
- Bukayo Saka 7 – Neat touches and some flair which was then rewarded with an assist from a corner.
- Morgan Rogers 6 – Improved but this demonstrated that if it's a choice between him and Bellingham there is only one victor.
- Marcus Rashford 7 – He was far superior to Gordon down the left. Was energetic and menacing. Vindicated his selection.
- Harry Kane 7 – Surpassed Gary Lineker's World Cup goals record as he returned to the scoresheet. Crucial strike.
Substitutes
- Madueke, for Saka, 63 mins, 6.
- Spence, for Quansah, 63 mins, 6.
- Eze, for Bellingham, 71 mins.
