Ten-man England beat co-hosts Mexico 3-2 at the famous Azteca Stadium to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals, courtesy a Jude Bellingham double and Harry Kane’s penalty.
Mexico attacked from the start backed by their fanatical support, but England held firm and managed to take the sting out of the game.
However, Bellingham put England ahead with a superb diving header from Bukayo Saka’s cross just past the half-hour.
After the goal, the Mexicans lost control as England pressed on for a second and they were rewarded after a brilliant piece of attacking play.
The Real Madrid star Bellingham made it 2-0 within two minutes after another break down the right with captain Harry Kane providing the assist.
The Mexican crowd responded with chants of “Yes we can” and their players responded.
Winger Julian Quinones volleyed home inside the box after a scramble following a free kick to get the hosts back into the match. 2-1!!
Soon after the break England went close to extending their lead when Nico O’Reilly hit the post, but they were soon to be down to 10 men when defender Jarell Quansah was sent off in the 54th minute for a rash sliding challenge with a high foot on Jesus Gallardo.
The visitors kept their cool and when Anthony Gordon ran through on goal he was fouled by keeper Raul Rangel. Kane stepped up and calmly scored from the spot on the hour mark. 3-1!!
Just as England looked to enjoy some breathing space, captain Kane gave away a penalty as he tried to clear the ball and after a VAR review the referee pointed to the spot. Raul Jimenez stepped up to make it 3-2 and give Mexico hope again.
With just over 20 minutes to go England had their backs to the wall and had to dig deep to keep the Mexicans at bay. Despite giving up most of the possession, they hung on for a famous victory in the last match of this World Cup in Mexico.
“We needed everything and it was super difficult and always in the moments when we thought we catch the momentum, we had like setbacks, but that’s a proper mentality. Well done,” said Tuchel.
“When the going gets tough, they never give up, they never lose belief. It was one step more.”
Mexico, who beat Ecuador 2-0 in the last 32 for their first knockout-stage win in 40 years, had only lost two competitive games at the Azteca in 89 matches since 1966. But England made it three with a performance of attacking verve and defensive grit
Thomas Tuchel’s side made it hard for themselves against the co-hosts but handed the battling Mexicans their first-ever World Cup defeat at the iconic venue, to set up a last-eight clash with Norway who shocked Brazil 2-1 earlier.
Latest World Cup results
Brazil 1-2 Norway
Mexico 2-3 England.
