EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey - Jude Bellingham delivered the decisive performance England needed, leading them to a 2-0 victory over Panama on Saturday.
The Real Madrid midfielder broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute, powering home a corner. He then set up captain Harry Kane five minutes later with a precise cross for a header.
The win secures first place in Group L for England, providing a potentially easier route in the knockout stages.
England manager Thomas Tuchel praised Bellingham's impact. "Jude was a big part of that," Tuchel said.
Bellingham addressed recent criticism from some fans. "It was nice to put some of the noise aside and just show my country and my teammates how committed I am," he stated.
The 22-year-old also became the youngest European player to feature in four consecutive major tournaments.
"First job achieved," Bellingham added. "We got through the group and won it."