England fans in Manchester erupted in celebration after a tense 3-2 victory over Mexico in the World Cup round of 16, with Jude Bellingham scoring twice and Harry Kane netting the winner. The match, which kicked off over an hour late due to delays, saw supporters pack fan zones across the city, enduring a long night that ultimately proved worth it.
Delayed kick-off fails to dampen spirits
Despite the late start, hundreds of England supporters remained in high spirits inside Manchester's fan zones. Pints continued to flow, predictions were exchanged, and anticipation grew as the delayed 1am UK start time became even later. Emma Bass, who attended with friends visiting from Australia, said, "We've actually got friends over from Australia, so we were thinking where's the most fun place to watch it. We thought this would be the best experience because of the big screen and the atmosphere."
Friends Shane and Finn were among those making bold predictions before kick-off. Shane forecast a 3-1 England win with Marcus Rashford scoring, while Finn went further: "I'm going 4-2 England. And the winner is going to be Jude Bellingham."
Bellingham brace sparks bedlam
Once the match began, England burst into life through Jude Bellingham. His first goal ignited an explosion of noise inside the fan zone, and minutes later, he struck again, sending the atmosphere from nervous anticipation to complete bedlam. Fans leapt from their seats, embraced strangers, and roared towards the giant screens as chants echoed through the packed venue.
Mexico, however, responded with a goal before half-time, reminding everyone that knockout football is never straightforward. The celebrations gave way to a collective intake of breath as England's comfortable lead suddenly looked less secure.
Red card and Kane's decisive penalty
After the restart, confidence was tested when Jarell Quansah received a red card, reducing England to 10 men. Every England attack was met with hopeful cheers, while every Mexican advance brought anxious silence. Then came the moment fans had been waiting for: a penalty for England, which Harry Kane converted to make it 3-1. The winning goal sparked the biggest reaction of the night, with relief turning into euphoria as supporters hugged strangers and jumped onto benches.
Mexico quickly responded with a penalty of their own, setting up a tense finish. England put everyone behind the ball as the home side desperately sought an equaliser. The final whistle was almost drowned out by the noise that followed.
Wonderwall and 'Football's Coming Home'
As England booked their place in the quarter-finals, supporters remained in full voice, belting out Oasis's Wonderwall before breaking into chants of "Football's Coming Home." For those who stayed up into the early hours despite the delayed kick-off, every minute had been worth it. After another dramatic night powered by Bellingham's brilliant brace and Kane's decisive finish, Manchester left believing this England side's World Cup story may have plenty more chapters still to write.
