England secured top spot in Group L with a 2-0 victory over Panama, setting up a last-32 World Cup tie against the Democratic Republic of the Congo. However, Thomas Tuchel faces a growing injury crisis in defence that could force a tactical rethink ahead of Wednesday’s match in Atlanta.
Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane scored the goals in New Jersey, with the Real Madrid midfielder opening the scoring before combining with the captain for the second. Kane headed home Bellingham’s cross after the 22-year-old had checked inside from the left flank, marking their first goal from open play together since September 2023.
Over-reliance on star duo
The partnership is flourishing at the tournament, with the pair having scored five of England’s six goals. Yet Tuchel remains concerned about over-reliance on his star attackers. The manager has called for a more collective approach, noting: “Sometimes, it’s just a run from someone else to open the space up for Jude so that he can shine.” He has urged his team to abandon the “freestyle” attacking that characterised their friendly against New Zealand earlier this month, preferring instead that they “play more in patterns and more in units.”
Defensive crisis clouds last-32 preparations
While the attack depends heavily on Kane and Bellingham, the defence is suffering from a shortage of fit right-backs. Tino Livramento has flown home injured, while Reece James is racing to recover from a hamstring problem in time for the last 16 should England progress. Jarell Quansah rolled an ankle against Panama, though he was moving freely after the match. The Liverpool defender is now a doubt to face the DRC.
The African nation, who held Portugal in their opening match, will arrive in Atlanta with confidence. They feature Sunderland midfielder Noah Sadiki and Newcastle forward Yoane Wissa, who could profit if England fail to tighten up at the back. Panama exposed defensive vulnerabilities despite exiting the competition without scoring in three games.
Among England’s supporting cast, Marcus Rashford offered encouragement after replacing Anthony Gordon, proving lively down the left flank. Bukayo Saka contributed his second assist of the tournament from the corner that led to Bellingham’s opener, though the Arsenal winger is still building match sharpness. Morgan Rogers struggled in the number 10 role against Panama, while Eberechi Eze appears to lack the manager’s full trust.