Bukayo Saka scored twice as England cruised to a 6-1 victory over Panama in their World Cup group stage match on Wednesday, with Thomas Tuchel's side putting on a dominant display at the Khalifa International Stadium.
England's dominant first half
England took control early, with Saka opening the scoring in the 12th minute after a clever pass from Jude Bellingham. The Arsenal winger cut inside and curled a shot into the far corner. Ten minutes later, Harry Kane doubled the lead from the penalty spot after a handball by Panama defender Fidel Escobar. Kane's spot-kick was his 55th international goal.
Panama pulled one back against the run of play in the 34th minute when Alberto Quintero headed home from a corner. However, England restored their two-goal advantage just before half-time through a stunning strike from Phil Foden, who lashed in from 20 yards after a corner was cleared.
Saka seals victory in second half
England continued to dominate after the break, and Saka scored his second of the game in the 58th minute, finishing off a swift counter-attack led by Marcus Rashford. Substitute James Maddison added a fifth with a deflected shot in the 74th minute, and Raheem Sterling completed the rout with a late sixth goal in stoppage time.
The win puts England top of Group B with six points from two matches, having also beaten Iran 4-1 in their opening game. Panama, meanwhile, have one point after drawing 1-1 with Wales.
Tuchel praises team performance
Speaking after the match, England manager Thomas Tuchel praised his team's attacking display. "We were very clinical today," Tuchel said. "The players executed the game plan perfectly, and it's great to see Bukayo in such form. He is a special talent."
Saka, who was named man of the match, said: "I'm really happy with the two goals, but the most important thing is the team won. We have a strong squad and we're building momentum."
England will face Wales in their final group game on Tuesday, needing a point to guarantee top spot in the group. Panama will take on Iran, needing a win to have any chance of advancing to the knockout stages.
