In a breathless last-16 clash at the Estadio Azteca, England overcame co-hosts Mexico 3-2 to book their place in the World Cup quarter-finals. The match, delayed by an hour due to weather, saw Jude Bellingham score twice in just over a minute to put England 2-0 up, before Mexico pulled one back through Julian Quinones. England then had Jarell Quansah sent off after a VAR review for a high challenge, but Harry Kane scored a penalty to make it 3-1. Mexico responded with a penalty of their own, converted by Raul Jimenez, but England held on despite being reduced to 10 men. The win sets up a quarter-final against Norway, who beat Brazil thanks to two goals from Erling Haaland. Jordan Henderson suffered a freak injury during celebrations, leaving on a stretcher after tripping over advertising hoardings.
The match was a classic knockout tie, with England showing resilience after Quansah's red card. Manager Thomas Tuchel changed formation to a back five to protect the lead. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made key saves, denying Jimenez twice in the first half. Bellingham was the star, earning a 9/10 rating from BBC Sport for what was described as "another iconic performance." Anthony Gordon was fouled for the penalty, and Bukayo Sako provided the cross for the opening goal. The win was particularly significant because Mexico were co-hosts, playing at the atmospheric Azteca, where altitude can be a factor. England's performance was described as "courageous" and they overcame the altitude "with attitude."
“England beat Mexico 3-2 to reach the World Cup quarter-finals. Jude Bellingham scored twice, and they face Norway next.”
For UK readers, this victory continues a thrilling World Cup journey. England's progress is a source of national pride, with fans back home celebrating. The performance of young players like Bellingham (Real Madrid) and the defensive grit shown by Marc Guehi and Ezri Konsa (who scored an own goal but made crucial clearances) highlights the depth of the squad. The quarter-final against Norway, featuring Erling Haaland, promises to be a tough test. The match also saw a right-back crisis deepen: Quansah's red card and a positive update on Reece James, who was spotted running at the Azteca after a hamstring injury, add subplots.
Q: How did England win despite being down to 10 men? England switched to a 5-3-1 formation after Quansah's red card, defended resolutely, and held on to their 3-2 lead, with goalkeeper Pickford making crucial saves.
Q: Who scored for England against Mexico? Jude Bellingham scored two first-half goals, and Harry Kane added a penalty in the second half.
Q: What was the controversy in the match? Jarell Quansah was sent off after a VAR review for a high challenge, and England also conceded a penalty after VAR intervened for a foul by Kane.
England will face Norway in the quarter-finals. Kick-off details are yet to be confirmed. The match will be a major test against Erling Haaland, who scored twice to eliminate Brazil. Jordan Henderson's injury will be assessed, and Thomas Tuchel will have to manage the right-back position with Quansah suspended and James possibly returning.