Harry Kane became England’s record World Cup goalscorer as they recovered from an unconvincing start to overcome Panama and finish top of Group L.
Jude Bellingham broke a frustrating deadlock to put England ahead after 62 minutes, then crossed for Kane to double their advantage with a close-range header five minutes later.
It was the England captain’s 11th World Cup goal – taking him one ahead of Gary Lineker.
England were below-par for long periods and once more looked vulnerable at the back, suffering another injury blow when emergency right-back Jarell Quansah, deputising for the injured Reece James, was forced off in the second half.
Bellingham was England’s outstanding driving force, making the breakthrough when he turned in a clever finish from Bukayo Saka’s corner.
He then turned creator with a perfect cross for Kane to rewrite England’s history books again with a routine finish, his 82nd goal in 117 appearances.
As England closed out the win, which means they will face DR Congo in the last 32 in Atlanta, Jordan Henderson came on as substitute to become the first player to represent his country at four World Cups.
