Kane praises ‘fantastic’ Bellingham

Harry Kane was full of praise for Jude Bellingham following the midfielder’s impressive display as England beat Panama 2-0 to secure top spot in Group L at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Bellingham was instrumental in the Three Lions’ victory, opening the scoring with a volley from Bukayo Saka’s corner before providing the assist for Kane to nod home the second.

That header was Kane’s 11th World Cup goal, which saw him move one clear of Gary Lineker to become England’s record World Cup scorer.

The captain admitted it was another ‘proud’ milestone, but was keen to acknowledge the contribution of his team-mate.

“Another top performance [from Bellingham],” he said.

“Jude looks fit and sharp with the bit between his teeth, really to go out there and prove to the world what type of player he is. 

“He showed that again today. It’s fantastic to play with him. The cross he put in for my goal just shows his quality. 

“His effort, non-stop running, tackling, tracking back - that’s the type of player we want in our team. 

“Jude is a fantastic runner with the ball, and without the ball, making runs in behind from deep. He’s so hard to track, he’s strong and physical. 

“Wherever he plays, he’s effective.”

Having finished one point ahead of Croatia to top Group L, England will have to wait to find out who they will play in the Round of 32.

Thomas Tuchel’s men do know they will be playing a third-placed team from Group E, I, J or K, but seven teams are currently in contention to face them in Atlanta on Wednesday 1 July. 

Kane says the England side have no preference on who they play, acknowledging that the group stage fixtures have proven just how tough any opponent can be at this level.

“For us, we take who we’re given,” Kane added.

“Whoever it is we’ll prepare well and it will be a tough game, as we’ve seen in all our games so far this tournament. 

“For now, it’s about enjoying what we have done, you can never take it for granted, seven points and top of the group. Let’s just take a breath and enjoy the qualification. 

“We’ll have time to prepare, we’re in a rhythm now, every three or four days, ready to go. For now, we will take this in and enjoy this moment.”