Harry Kane breaks England World Cup scoring record against Panama

Harry Kane became England's all-time leading men's World Cup goalscorer as his second-half header helped secure a 2-0 victory over Panama and confirmed top spot in Group L at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The milestone ended Gary Lineker's 36-year hold on the national record, with Kane moving to 11 World Cup goals.

The result at New York New Jersey Stadium completed England's group-stage campaign with seven points, enough to finish above Ghana on goal difference. After a frustrating opening hour against a disciplined Panama side, Jude Bellingham broke the deadlock before turning provider for Kane's landmark goal five minutes later.

England controlled possession from the opening whistle but struggled to convert territorial dominance into clear chances. Marcus Rashford tested goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera, while Bukayo Saka's return to the starting line-up added width without producing an early breakthrough. Panama remained compact and briefly threatened through José Luis Rodríguez, forcing Jordan Pickford into an important save.

The contest changed in the 62nd minute. Saka's corner caused problems inside the penalty area and Bellingham reacted quickest to finish from close range. Five minutes later, the midfielder delivered a measured cross into the six-yard box, where Kane rose to power a header beyond Mosquera. The goal was Kane's third of the tournament and his 11th across World Cup finals, taking him clear of Lineker's previous England record of 10.

Kane's influence extended beyond the record itself. Although he had relatively few touches before half-time, the England captain again demonstrated the efficiency that has defined his international career. One decisive movement inside the box proved enough to rewrite England's World Cup history.

The achievement also adds another chapter to Kane's growing list of England records. He had already become the country's all-time leading men's international goalscorer before arriving at the tournament. Now he also stands alone as England's most prolific scorer at World Cup finals, surpassing a mark Lineker established across the 1986 and 1990 tournaments. The comparison is notable because both forwards carried England's attack in different eras, although Kane has benefited from multiple World Cup appearances across an expanded international calendar.

Bellingham, meanwhile, was arguably England's outstanding performer. His goal broke Panama's resistance and his assist supplied the record-breaking moment. After the match, the midfielder praised Kane's consistency and described the captain as England's finest player, reflecting the respect Kane commands within the squad.