Two goals from Jude Bellingham before half-time and a Harry Kane penalty after the break sent England into the World Cup quarter-finals with a 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca — a win forged despite playing the final half-hour with 10 men. Thomas Tuchel's side, who produced what the Mirror called 'one of their all-time best tournament performances', will now face Norway in Miami on Saturday (kick-off 10pm UK time) for a place in the semi-finals.
Norway advanced after a stunning 2-0 win over five-time champions Brazil, courtesy of a late Erling Haaland double. That result reshaped England's path: initially the projected run of Mexico, Brazil, Argentina and Spain — an average FIFA ranking of 5.75 — has become Mexico, Norway, then either Argentina or Egypt, and potentially Spain or France. The average ranking of England's remaining opponents now stands at 11.3, or 11.7 if France reach the final instead of Spain. ‘Norway showed their quality by beating Brazil, so they definitely aren’t to be underestimated,’ the Mirror cautioned.
“England beat Mexico 3-2 with 10 men; face Norway in quarter-finals.”
England's victory was marred by a freak accident during the post-match celebrations: midfielder Jordan Henderson was taken to hospital after a painful fall and will stay in Mexico City rather than travel back with his team-mates, the Standard reported. Meanwhile, five England players risk a World Cup ban following the physical battle with Mexico, though the governing body has yet to announce any charges.
For Tuchel's side, the path to glory has eased on paper — but as France's projected run (Morocco, Spain, England) averages 4.3, and Spain's potential route through Portugal, Belgium, France and Argentina averages 4.5, the margin for error remains razor-thin. Argentina, yet to play Egypt in the last 16, face an average ranking of 12 in their projected run. England will need to prove that rankings count for nothing when they meet Haaland's Norway in Miami.