Jude Bellingham delivered a match-winning performance as England overcame a spirited Mexico side to secure a dramatic 3-2 victory in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, booking their place in the quarter-finals.
Playing in front of more than 80,000 passionate fans at the iconic Estadio Azteca on Sunday, England showed resilience and composure despite being reduced to 10 men after Jarell Quansah’s second-half dismissal.
Bellingham scored twice in a blistering 98-second spell during the first half, giving the Three Lions a commanding early advantage. Harry Kane later converted a penalty to restore England’s lead after Mexico fought back, ensuring Thomas Tuchel’s side remained on course for their first major international trophy in six decades.
The match, delayed by an hour due to heavy rain and thunderstorms in Mexico City, lived up to its billing as one of the tournament’s most thrilling encounters.
England opened the scoring when Bukayo Saka’s cross found Bellingham, who powered home a header. Moments later, the Real Madrid midfielder struck again, finishing confidently after being set up by Kane to register his fourth goal of the tournament.
Mexico responded before halftime through Julián Quiñones, who capitalised on a defensive lapse to reduce the deficit. The hosts continued to pile on pressure, with goalkeeper Jordan Pickford producing several crucial saves to deny Raúl Jiménez and keep England ahead.
England’s task became significantly harder in the 54th minute when defender Jarell Quansah was shown a straight red card following a VAR review for a reckless challenge on Jesús Gallardo.
Despite being a man down, England held their nerve. Kane calmly converted from the penalty spot before Jiménez scored from the spot for Mexico to set up a tense finale. However, the Three Lions defended resolutely to seal a famous victory.
The result also erased painful memories of England’s 1986 World Cup quarter-final defeat at the Azteca, where Diego Maradona famously inspired Argentina to victory.
England will now face Erling Haaland’s Norway in the quarter-finals, with hopes of ending their 60-year wait for major tournament glory still alive.
