England hit a brittle Panama side for six to seal qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ knockout stage, a result that booked Belgium’s Round of 16 berth too while eliminating Los Canaleros and Tunisia. Only top spot in Group G will be on the line when the Three Lions and Red Devils do battle next time out.

Gareth Southgate’s team once again showcased their dead-ball prowess: two of their goals were penalties and a further two were headers from a corner and free-kick respectively. As for the Panamanians, they knew in advance that they would have to be clinical to stand any chance of getting something out of the game. Instead, they spurned the first two opportunities of the match and then promptly capitulated, finding themselves 2-0 down shortly after.

John Stones headed home a brace, while Harry Kane hit the tournament’s second hat-trick so far, twice converting convincingly from the spot and then completing his treble when a Ruben Loftus-Cheek shot flicked off him and be diverted into the net.

Despite taking a pummelling, Panama also had grounds to celebrate when they scored their first-ever World Cup goal courtesy of a fine finish from 12 yards from Felipe Baloy.

Team Reporter Analysis
Laure James with England [Follow: Twitter]
After just two matches at Russia 2018, England have already broken records. The Three Lions had never scored more than four goals in a World Cup match before, but had already helped themselves to five before the break against Panama. Moreover, following his double against Tunisia, Harry Kane’s hat-trick moved him top of the tournament’s scoring charts. It was a great all-round performance that set pulses racing among the England supporters, who will be heartened to see the goals being spread around the team.