Jude Bellingham scored twice and Harry Kane converted a penalty as 10-man England held on for a thrilling 3-2 victory against Mexico at the Estadio Azteca on Monday, setting up a World Cup quarter-final with Norway. But the win was marred by the sending off of defender Jarell Quansah, who now faces a likely ban for the last-eight clash.
The right-back curse that has plagued Thomas Tuchel's side struck once more when Quansah was shown a straight red card for a high tackle. Referee Alireza Faghani initially did not even award a free-kick, but after a VAR review he brandished the red card. On reflection, the general consensus is that the tackle warranted the punishment, ruling Quansah out of Saturday's showdown with Norway.
“England beat Mexico 3-2 but face appeal decision on Jarell Quansah's red card before Norway quarter-final.”
However, England are considering their options when it comes to a challenge of the decision. There is no direct appeal process at this World Cup, but a precedent has been set. FIFA intervened to suspend a one-match ban for United States striker Folarin Balogun after he was sent off following a VAR review. The controversial call allowed Balogun to play in the US's round-of-16 clash with Belgium, which they lost 4-1. The intervention came after Donald Trump reached out to FIFA president Gianni Infantino to discuss a review.
The Football Association could argue that they, like the US did over Balogun's dismissal, are unhappy that a still image and slow-motion replays were used in the recommendation, something that goes against VAR protocols. Whether England will push for the same action to be taken with Quansah remains to be seen, particularly given there is scope that Quansah may be caught up in the frenzy of any potential U-turn just as Balogun was.
After the match, a hoarse Harry Kane broke his silence on the victory, describing it as 'perfect' in a hilarious post-match interview after losing his voice celebrating. The night has the potential to be transformative for the Three Lions ahead of their quarter-final against Norway.