England sealed top spot in Group L with a 2-0 victory over Panama at New York New Jersey Stadium on Saturday, with goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane in the second half. The match, played in wet conditions, saw a much-changed England side dominate possession and create numerous chances before finally breaking through.
First half: England dominate but fail to score
England controlled the first half, with Marcus Rashford and Elliot Anderson both going close. Panama defended resolutely, with goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera making several saves, including a punch clearance as Harry Kane went in with his head. The best chance fell to Rashford, who fired wide from a promising position. Fans at Croydon Boxpark were not impressed as half-time approached, while supporters in Hebburn on Tyneside watched with growing anticipation.
Second half: Bellingham and Kane strike
The deadlock was broken in the 55th minute when Jude Bellingham turned in a cross from the right, sparking celebrations at Boxpark Wembley and among the England fans in the stadium. Ten minutes later, Harry Kane headed in England's second goal from a corner, effectively sealing the win. Kane and Bellingham celebrated in front of the England supporters, who had braved the rain to cheer their team.
Key moments and images
The match was captured by photographers from multiple agencies, including Dylan Martinez, Yuki Iwamura, and John Sibley. Notable images include Elliot Anderson beating Cristian Martínez to a header, Jordan Pickford diving to punch a clearance, and Panama's Azarías Londoño stopping Nico O'Reilly in unconventional fashion. England captain Harry Kane led the team out with mascots, and Thomas Tuchel was pictured with the coaching team during the national anthems.
Panama had their chances, with Michael Amir Murillo ruing a missed opportunity, but England's defense, marshaled by Marc Guéhi and Ezri Konsa, kept a clean sheet. The victory ensured England finished top of Group L, while Panama were eliminated from the tournament.
