England's second‑half surge secures Group L top spot

Jude Bellingham's second‑half strike, quickly followed by Harry Kane's header, put England 2‑0 up and paved the way for a Group L victory at the 2026 World Cup. The English side had struggled in the first half against Panama, but the pair's goals turned the tide. England found the first half against Panama challenging, struggling to break through the opposition's defence. The English side failed to score before the interval. After the interval, Jude Bellingham opened the scoring, followed by Harry Kane's header, giving England a 2‑0 lead. Both goals arrived after the break, sealing the victory. The match concluded with England winning 2‑0.

English press raise alarm over England's shaky World Cup group display

In the other group fixture, Croatia edged Ghana by a narrow 2‑1 margin to claim second place. The win was secured despite a late attempt from Derrick Luckassen, the brother of Brian Brobbey, who believed he would equalise with fifteen minutes left. Croatia held on to preserve the win.

Bellingham's impact steers England into knockout round at World Cup

England's triumph crowns them Group L winners at the 2026 World Cup, guaranteeing progression to the knockout stage. Croatia's narrow success ensures they finish second and also advance.