Argentina delivered a scarcely believable second-half comeback to break Egypt hearts and reach the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup, surviving an almighty scare in the process. The dramatic victory set up a last-eight meeting with Switzerland – but the celebrations were tempered by a fitness concern, with one defender sent for scans after the match.
While Argentina booked their place in the quarter-finals, England produced their best showing of the tournament to beat Mexico 3-2 at the Azteca, a result that has converted Alan Shearer into a believer. The former striker, who had been sceptical about England’s chances, now believes they could win the World Cup.
“Argentina survive scare to reach World Cup quarter-finals; Shearer now believes England can win the tournament.”
“We might actually be able to win this thing,” Shearer wrote on the BBC. “From the fans to the players, that's what everyone must be thinking after England's epic win over Mexico – I know I am – when I genuinely didn't feel that was the case before the game. There was hope, of course. There's always hope with England at a major tournament, but that performance has pushed us all further forward and given everyone, including me, confidence and belief too.”
Jude Bellingham scored a brace in the Mexico win, while Harry Kane – firmly in the race for the Golden Boot – added two second-half goals to avoid an upset against DR Congo earlier in the tournament. Shearer insists there is nothing wrong with relying on your leading lights, and described the victory in Mexico City as the best team performance he has seen from an England side.
“I am 55 and I'd describe that display as the best team performance I've seen from any England side in my lifetime, particularly away from home,” he said. “I don't think I've ever witnessed togetherness or team spirit like that – to get a result in such a tough scenario. That's how good it was.”
England face Norway in the quarter-finals, with a potential semi-final against old foes Argentina looming. Thomas Tuchel’s side are favourites to see off Erling Haaland and co, and Shearer’s newfound belief adds weight to the growing sense that this could be the year England end their 60-year wait for a major tournament.