England secured top spot in Group L with a 2-0 victory over Panama at the New York New Jersey Stadium, but Phil McNulty argues their World Cup ambitions remain uncertain. Jude Bellingham delivered a man-of-the-match performance, scoring the opener and setting up Harry Kane's header that made the captain England's leading World Cup finals scorer with 11 goals.

Thomas Tuchel's defensive selections raised eyebrows throughout the group stage. With Reece James and Tino Livramento both injured, the coach deployed central defender Jarell Quansah at right-back before he too departed with injury. Former England captain Alan Shearer questioned whether Tuchel would regret these decisions against stronger opposition.

Panama created 13 attempts on target, exposing vulnerabilities in England's backline that allowed the underdogs hope. Tuchel switched from Stones and Konsa to a Konsa-Guehi partnership, leaving the Manchester City defender's role unclear for the knockout phase. Declan Rice's expected return should provide crucial midfield stability.

Marcus Rashford impressed in his first start, forcing saves and narrowly missing chances, though Anthony Gordon's disappointing displays opened the door. England face either DR Congo or Senegal in Atlanta, but defensive frailties against Panama suggest their World Cup run could end quickly if improvements don't materialize.