Thomas Tuchel saluted a 'heroic performance' from his England side after they defeated Mexico 3-2 at the Estadio Azteca, a historic victory that secured a World Cup quarter-final against Norway. The win marked England's first at the iconic stadium since 2013, achieved despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Jarell Quansah's red card.
Tuchel Praises Team's Heart and Belief
Tuchel described the victory as feeling like winning a final, praising his players' determination. 'If a team has heart and belief then it's this team. They did it on pure will. No words. Iconic match, iconic stadium, we overcame so much adversity today,' he said.
Jude Bellingham scored a first-half double, and Harry Kane added a penalty soon after Quansah's dismissal, giving England a 3-2 lead. Mexico pulled one back through a Raúl Jiménez penalty, but England held on with a resolute defensive display.
Injury to Jordan Henderson Clouds Victory
Tuchel revealed that Jordan Henderson suffered a serious wrist injury during post-match celebrations and was hospitalized overnight. 'I'm exhausted and emotional but also sad because Jordan is in hospital with quite a serious injury to his wrist,' Tuchel said. Henderson will not travel with the team to Kansas City.
Tuchel Criticizes Refereeing Decisions
Tuchel was critical of the refereeing, particularly Quansah's red card, which was awarded after a VAR review. 'Just not good enough, the referees are just not good enough, fourth officials are just not good enough, that's the bottom line,' he said. He also questioned a VAR review that led to Mexico's penalty.
Bellingham Reflects on Mental Block Cleared
Bellingham highlighted the team's resilience. 'In big pressure moments in years gone by watching as a fan, as a kid, England probably would have crumbled but we stuck together until the last second,' he said. 'Norway pose a different threat, some world-class players, so we will have to be ready.'
Tuchel confirmed he would take a 24-hour break from football before preparing for Norway. The Mexico manager, Javier Aguirre, who is stepping down, said he was 'overtaken by emotions' after the narrow defeat.
