Thomas Tuchel's England produced their greatest-ever away win, defeating Mexico 3-2 at the iconic Azteca Stadium to book a World Cup quarter-final spot. Jude Bellingham scored twice in a stunning first-half display, while Harry Kane added a penalty, as England overcame a red card and a late Mexico fightback.
Historic Victory at the Azteca
The win marked only Mexico's third defeat in 90 competitive matches at the Azteca, underlining the scale of England's achievement. The Three Lions became the first England side to win at this venue, exorcising the ghosts of Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' in 1986.
England's performance was defined by resilience. After taking a 2-0 lead through Bellingham's quickfire double, they conceded just before half-time. A red card to Jarell Quansah in the 54th minute reduced them to ten men, but Kane's penalty restored their advantage. However, Kane's foul gifted Mexico a second penalty, which Raul Jimenez converted, setting up a tense finale.
Bellingham's Heroics
Jude Bellingham was the standout performer, scoring twice in 98 seconds and chasing every ball until exhaustion. "Not a team player? What sort of joker came up with that?" wrote John Cross in the Mirror, praising Bellingham's selfless display. His first goal came from a Bukayo Saka cross, and the second followed Elliot Anderson's pressing and Harry Kane's pull-back.
Anthony Gordon also impressed, winning the penalty that Kane converted, while John Stones came off the bench to marshal the defense in a man-of-the-match performance. Dan Burn also earned praise for his warrior-like display.
Controversy and Red Card
The match was not without controversy. Quansah was sent off after a VAR review for a tackle on Jesús Gallardo, despite appearing to win the ball. Referee Alireza Faghani's decision left England with ten men for the final 36 minutes. Mexico's first penalty was also awarded after a VAR check, with Kane adjudged to have fouled Brian Gutiérrez.
Despite the setbacks, England held on through 11 minutes of added time, with Jordan Pickford making crucial saves. The win sets up a quarter-final against Norway in Miami.
Tuchel's Gamble Pays Off
Thomas Tuchel's tactical gamble—fielding an attacking lineup in the hostile Azteca atmosphere—paid dividends. The game was delayed by an hour due to weather, but England adapted quickly. Declan Rice was booked within 59 seconds for a high boot, yet England controlled the tempo and silenced the raucous home fans.
"Mark this down as England's best-ever win on foreign soil," wrote John Cross. The victory transformed England's World Cup campaign from struggling to heroic, earning Tuchel the respect he deserves.
