Kane passes Lineker as England top Group L

England closed out the group stage with a controlled 2-0 win over Panama at the MetLife Stadium, a result that confirmed them as Group L winners and delivered a slice of history. Harry Kane's goal — his 11th at World Cup finals — carried him past Gary Lineker to make him England's all-time leading scorer at the tournament, a landmark moment for the captain. Jude Bellingham had earlier opened the scoring, and a professional, comfortable display did exactly what was required against a Panama side already eliminated. Thomas Tuchel's England were rarely troubled, managing the game with the assurance of a team conserving energy for the knockouts.

Match summary: Bellingham opens, Kane makes history

England were patient and dominant, and the breakthrough arrived on 62 minutes when Bellingham finished crisply to settle any nerves. Five minutes later the moment everyone awaited followed: Kane struck for his 11th World Cup goal, moving clear of Gary Lineker as England's record scorer at the finals. Panama, with nothing left to play for, offered little going forward and England saw out the contest in cruise control, protecting a clean sheet and the points that sealed top spot. It was not a vintage performance, but it was efficient — and the headline belonged to Kane's place in the history books.

Tuchel eyes another gear in the knockouts

England's group campaign has been solid rather than spectacular, and Thomas Tuchel was quick to suggest his side will step up when it matters: a team he believes will improve in the knockout rounds. The platform is there — a settled defence, Bellingham's class in midfield and a captain in record-breaking form. Kane's milestone is the storyline that will dominate, but Tuchel will be just as encouraged by the control and game-management on show. England top the group without having hit top gear, a position of strength as the tournament's decisive phase begins.

Group L done: England top, Round of 32 against DR Congo

Victory confirmed England as Group L winners on seven points with a goal difference of plus four. Croatia finished second to set up a meeting with Portugal, while Ghana took third on four points and advance among the best third-placed teams to face Colombia; Panama finished bottom and are out. England's reward is a Round of 32 tie with DR Congo, the African side reaching the knockouts for the first time in their history. On paper a favourable draw — but Tuchel will demand the improvement he has promised as England chase a deep run.