England overcame a determined challenge from co-host Mexico to claim a dramatic 3-2 victory at the Azteca Stadium on Sunday, advancing to the World Cup quarter-finals for the third consecutive tournament. The English side played much of the second half with ten men but managed to hold on to their lead.
Jude Bellingham was the standout performer, scoring two goals in the first half, while Harry Kane added a penalty after the break. This win sets up a quarter-final encounter against Norway, who earlier stunned Brazil with a 2-1 victory.
The match, delayed by an hour due to thunderstorms, began with Mexico pressing hard, energized by a passionate home crowd. Raul Jimenez came closest to scoring early on, but England’s goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made a remarkable save from the striker’s diving header. Notably, this was Pickford’s 17th World Cup appearance, equaling Peter Shilton’s record for England men.
England struck twice in quick succession after the 30-minute mark. Bellingham opened the scoring with a diving header from a Bukayo Saka cross and then doubled the lead just two minutes later after a set-up from Harry Kane following another attack down the right flank.
Mexico responded before halftime when Julian Quinones volleyed home from close range following a scramble in the penalty area, reducing the deficit to 2-1.
The challenge for England intensified in the 54th minute when defender Jarell Quansah was sent off after a VAR review for a high-footed sliding tackle on Jesus Gallardo. Quansah became only the fourth England player to be dismissed at a World Cup.
Despite being a man down, England extended their lead when Mexico’s goalkeeper Raul Rangel fouled Anthony Gordon, allowing Kane to calmly convert the resulting penalty on the hour mark.
Mexico fought back and earned a penalty after Kane was penalized, with Jimenez converting to make it 3-2. The hosts dominated possession in the final stages, but England’s defense stood firm to secure the win, handing Mexico their first-ever World Cup defeat at the Azteca Stadium.
Reflecting on the match, Kane described it as “a crazy game,” emphasizing the team’s determination to find a way despite the odds. Manager Thomas Tuchel praised his squad’s resilience, highlighting their unwavering belief during tough moments.
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre expressed disappointment over defensive errors but commended his players’ effort against a strong England side. The loss ended Mexico’s impressive home unbeaten streak in competitive matches dating back to 2013.
England celebrated a significant victory on their first visit to the Azteca since their 1986 World Cup quarter-final defeat to Argentina, marking a memorable milestone in their 2026 campaign.
