Wayne Rooney has criticised England's jubilant celebrations following their dramatic 3-2 victory over Mexico in the World Cup round of 16, stating that it is 'a bit too soon' to be partying. The former England captain expressed his discomfort while watching the dressing-room footage on BBC's coverage, contrasting with the more relaxed view of former Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta.
England's Dramatic Win at the Azteca
England secured their place in the quarter-finals on Sunday at the iconic Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, with a memorable 3-2 win. Jude Bellingham gave England a 2-0 lead, but Julian Quinones pulled one back before half-time. Early in the second half, Jarell Quansah was shown a red card, but a Harry Kane penalty restored England's two-goal cushion. However, Kane then conceded a penalty that Raul Jimenez converted, setting up a tense final half-hour that England survived to progress and face Norway in the last eight.
Celebrations Draw Rooney's Ire
Footage from the dressing room showed players, management, and staff celebrating the famous win, which reportedly cost Jordan Henderson his World Cup involvement due to an injury sustained during the festivities. Watching the celebrations, Azpilicueta said: 'As a player, when you have had these kinds of games against a host, this atmosphere, you have to enjoy it. Life is about balance, football is about balance, it's time to enjoy it. Now they will recover and be ready for another game.' Rooney, however, was clearly uncomfortable, stating: 'I'm a bit more old school. After you win anything… I know you've got to enjoy it but I think it's a bit too soon.'
Tuchel Defends Celebrations
England boss Thomas Tuchel was not ready to calm down the celebrations, saying it felt like England had won a final. 'I'm so happy with the players, and also for me, to live this experience in the last two days. Such a special memory, and against all the adversity it makes it very special for us,' he said. '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. I felt in the build-up that it never felt like a round-of-16 game. It still doesn't, it feels like we won a final or something.'
Quarter-Final Preparations
England have plenty of time to reset and prepare for their quarter-final against Norway in Miami on Saturday. This is a more generous turnaround than Spain and Belgium, who won their last-16 games on Monday and meet each other in the quarter-finals on Friday. The Three Lions will be looking to build on their hard-fought victory as they continue their World Cup campaign.
