Harry Kane Hails ‘Fantastic’ Bellingham After England Beat Panama

Harry Kane has hailed Jude Bellingham as a “fantastic” player after the midfielder inspired England to a 2-0 win over Panama and secured top spot in their 2026 FIFA World Cup group.

Bellingham scored one goal and set up Kane for the other as England wrapped up the group stage unbeaten with seven points. Kane said the Real Madrid midfielder once again showed why he is one of the game’s standout talents.

“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.”

Looking ahead to the knockout stage, Kane said England have no preference over their next opponents, insisting every remaining side will provide a stern test.

“For us, we take what we’re given. 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,” Kane said.

“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.”