England 2-0 Panama: Three things we learned as Jude Bellingham inspires the Three Lions to victory

England claimed a 2-0 win over Panama in their final group-stage fixture at the 2026 FIFA World Cup at New York-New Jersey Stadium on Saturday evening.

The Three Lions have finished top of Group L, one point clear of second-placed Croatia. Here are three talking points from the game.

Jude Bellingham is the man

There was uncertainty about Bellingham’s place before the tournament began, but he once again demonstrated why he is crucial to the Three Lions.

The Real Madrid man was head and shoulders above everyone in a dire first half. He glided past his markers magnificently, while not neglecting his defensive duties.

He scored the opening goal with a difficult volley and produced a brilliant cross for the second. Undoubtedly, the man of the match.

Defensive frailties remain

Not many people would have envisaged Panama causing the Three Lions’ trouble, but they did.

The Canal Men took advantage of England’s poor defensive shape, particularly after turnovers.

Manager Thomas Tuchel must fix his side’s defensive shape if they are to go deep in the tournament.

Issues arising at right-back

Tuchel named two injury-prone right-backs in his 26-man squad – Reece James and Tino Livramento.

The latter was injured before the tournament began, while James picked up a hamstring issue before this clash.

Jarell Quansah, who was selected against Panama, was also substituted due to an injury, potentially leaving Tuchel with Djed Spence as the only right-back option ahead of the round of 32.

It raises a question about Tuchel’s decision to select Trevoh Chalobah rather than a specialist right-back.