England finished as Group L winners after a composed 2-0 victory over Panama in East Rutherford yesterday.

After being frustrated for an hour by Panama’s disciplined defence, England found the breakthrough in the 62nd minute when Jude Bellingham converted from close range following a Bukayo Saka corner.

Five minutes later, Bellingham turned provider, delivering a pinpoint cross for Harry Kane to head home his 11th FIFA World Cup goal, surpassing Gary Lineker as England’s all-time leading World Cup scorer.

In the group’s other fixture, Croatia edged Ghana 2-1 in Philadelphia to secure second place.

Petar Sučić gave Croatia the lead with a stunning long-range strike before Andrej Kramarić doubled the advantage after the break.

Ghana responded late through Antoine Semenyo but couldn’t find an equaliser as Cratia held on for a crucial victory.

England completed the group stage unbeaten with seven points from two wins and a draw, while Croatia finished second on six points after bouncing back from their opening defeat to England.
Ghana ended third with four points and remained in contention for a Round of 32 place as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.

Panama finished bottom after losing all three of their matches.