Mexico City: England secured a place in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals with a thrilling 3-2 victory over hosts Mexico at the Azteca Stadium. Jude Bellingham starred with two first-half goals as Thomas Tuchel’s side held on despite playing with 10 men for much of the second half.
The match was delayed by an hour because of severe storms, but England quickly settled into the contest. Bellingham gave England control by scoring twice in just 98 seconds before halftime, putting the visitors in a commanding position. Mexico responded through Julian Quinones, who reduced the deficit shortly before the break.
England faced a major setback early in the second half when defender Jarell Quansah was shown a red card for a high challenge. Despite being a man down, England restored the two-goal advantage after Harry Kane converted a penalty following a foul on Anthony Gordon inside the box.
A tie that had absolutely everything. A win that means absolutely everything.
WE ARE WORLD CUP QUARTER-FINALISTS! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/mpBLI7m3XQ
— England (@England) July 6, 2026
Mexico refused to give up and earned a penalty of their own when Kane fouled Brian Gutierrez in the area. Raul Jimenez calmly converted from the spot to make it 3-2, setting up a tense finish in front of a passionate home crowd.
With Mexico pushing for an equaliser, England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made several crucial saves to preserve the lead. Manager Thomas Tuchel strengthened the defence with late substitutions as England successfully withstood sustained pressure during 11 minutes of stoppage time.
The victory sends England into the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals, where the team will face Norway. England’s disciplined display, combined with Bellingham’s outstanding performance, kept the campaign alive and moved the team one step closer to the World Cup trophy.
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