Marcus Rashford was handed his first start at the 2026 World Cup in England’s final group match.
After a 7-minute cameo in England’s draw against Ghana, Marcus Rashford was given a chance to impact a game from the start.
Thomas Tuchel preferred Anthony Gordon on the left wing in England’s opening two matches at the 2026 World Cup, even though Rashford has boasted a better return of one goal since the tournament began.
England beat Panama 2-0, thanks to goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane.
Marcus Rashford lacked end product against Panama
For the final group game, Tuchel opted for Rashford and Bukayo Saka on the wings. They tried to stretch the pitch by holding wide positions, but Panama were well organised and proved difficult to break down.
Rashford created England’s best chance in the first half. The Manchester United winger, who faces an uncertain future at Old Trafford, cut in from the left flank and shot from distance. Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera denied his shot by diving to his right.
Then, in the final minutes of the first half, Rashford had a chance to score from a free-kick in front of a big Panama wall. His effort was sent wide.
Despite a bright start, though, Rashford’s habit of running into trouble was an unpleasant blast from the past for onlooking United fans. He had the joint-most touches (9) in the opposition box and took the most shots (5).
Ultimately, it wasn’t a performance that will do Rashford any favours in terms of keeping his place in the line-up as England begin preparations for the Round of 32.
Rashford would have wanted to add to his World Cup tally after getting the nod from the start.
The result means England top their group.
- ⚡️ NEWS IN BRIEF
- Marcus Rashford started in England’s 2-0 win over Panama
- The Manchester United forward played the entire match and registered the most shots
- It remains to be seen if Rashford will keep his place in the England line-up
Kobbie Mainoo overlooked by Thomas Tuchel again
Although Declan Rice was rested against Panama, there was no room for Kobbie Mainoo in midfield.
The United academy graduate hasn’t appeared in any of England’s three group matches.
It will come as a disappointment for Mainoo not to get any minutes against Panama, especially when Jordan Henderson was brought on as a substitute ahead of him.
This also raises the question of whether Mainoo will get any minutes at the World Cup.
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