Jude Bellingham scored two first-half goals as England beat Mexico 3-2 at the Estadio Azteca on Monday, firing Thomas Tuchel's side into the quarter-finals of the World Cup. The Real Madrid midfielder, still only 23, has been one of the tournament's stars and his brace has the entire nation dreaming.
Bellingham's Message to Fans
Bellingham insisted England's desire to make the country proud is fuelling their World Cup dream. He said: "No, I've never been prouder, never been prouder of a group of lads, a squad or a nation. It was a country's performance, everything I've seen this week is that the country is behind us."
An hour-long storm delay meant fans back home had to endure a late night. Bellingham urged supporters to celebrate: "Text your bosses and tell them you're not going in. Simple as that." He added: "Kids stay off school, parents don't go to work and enjoy the day. Go down the pub with your friends again because these nights don't come around often."
Bellingham's Leadership and Team Spirit
Bellingham is embracing his role as an integral leader under Tuchel. Only Harry Kane (six), Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi (seven) have scored more at this World Cup. He said: "I'm aware of the responsibility and pressure that I carry with the other players. Each player has a different responsibility within their roles but I know what I can offer on the pitch."
He praised his teammates: "We've got 26 lads there who could do exactly what I just did tonight. I'm convinced of this, I hope a night like this can give them the conviction. We've got top players in there, we shouldn't wait 40 or 50 minutes to realise that we're a very good team."
England's World Cup Journey
The victory at the historic Azteca was described by Bellingham as "the best night of my England career for sure." He reflected on his own fandom: "I've been an England fan since I was seven years old, the 2010 World Cup was my first World Cup." He noted that previous England teams struggled in such atmospheres, but this squad is different.
Bellingham's brace and leadership have propelled England into the quarter-finals, with the nation united behind the team. The midfielder's message to fans is clear: enjoy the moment, because these nights don't come around often.
