Bellingham leads England past Panama to secure Group L top spot

England clinched first place in World Cup Group L with a 2-0 victory over Panama, powered by a goal and an assist from Jude Bellingham and a Harry Kane strike. The result ensured Thomas Tuchel's side advanced as group winners, while Croatia edged Ghana 2-1 to take second place, according to telegraaf.nl.

telegraaf.nlEngland wins Group L at 2026 World Cup; Croatia edges Ghana 2-1

Goal.com reported that Bellingham delivered a standout performance, scoring one and setting up another, but noted that England's display was otherwise lackluster. Tuchel made five changes to the lineup following a disappointing draw against Ghana. As Goal.com put it, "Thomas Tuchel's side delivered an otherwise uninspiring display" despite the win.

goal.comJude Bellingham stars as England beat Panama 2-0 to top World Cup Group L

In the other Group L match, Croatia secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Ghana. Telegraaf.nl noted that Ghana's goal came from Derrick Luckassen, who is the brother of Brian Brobbey, but it was not enough to prevent Croatia from advancing alongside England.

Telegraaf.nl also teased a surprising achievement by Cape Verde at the tournament, suggesting the small nation has caught the attention of the international press with its performance. Further details on that story are yet to emerge.