England secured a commanding 3-1 victory over Mexico in the World Cup last 16 on Sunday, advancing to the quarter-finals where they will face France. The match, played at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, saw England dominate from the outset, with Jude Bellingham scoring twice and Harry Kane adding a third from the penalty spot.
First Half Dominance
England took the lead in the 18th minute when Bellingham volleyed home a cross from Bukayo Saka. The goal came after sustained pressure from England, who controlled possession and created several chances. Mexico struggled to contain England's attacking trio of Saka, Kane, and Phil Foden.
Kane doubled the lead in the 35th minute from the penalty spot after a foul on Declan Rice. The England captain sent the goalkeeper the wrong way, slotting the ball into the bottom left corner. England went into halftime with a comfortable 2-0 lead, having had 68% possession and five shots on target.
Second Half Resilience
Mexico came out stronger in the second half, pressing higher and creating more opportunities. They pulled a goal back in the 62nd minute through a header from Hirving Lozano, who rose highest to meet a cross from Andrés Guardado. The goal energized the home crowd and put England under pressure.
However, England restored their two-goal advantage just ten minutes later when Bellingham scored his second of the match, a curling shot from outside the box that beat Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa. According to match statistics, Bellingham completed 89% of his passes and made three key passes during the game.
Key Performances and Quarter-Final Outlook
England's defense, led by Harry Maguire and John Stones, held firm despite Mexico's late pressure. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made two crucial saves to preserve the lead. England manager Gareth Southgate praised his team's performance, saying, "We showed great character to respond to their goal and control the game again. We are looking forward to the challenge against France."
The quarter-final against France is scheduled for Friday, with England aiming to reach the semi-finals for the second consecutive World Cup. France advanced by beating Poland 2-1 in their last 16 match.
