England secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Mexico in the World Cup 2026 round of 16 at the Estadio Azteca, overcoming a one-hour storm delay, a red card, and a late Mexican fightback to advance to the quarter-finals against Norway.
Storm Delay and Electric Atmosphere
The match kicked off an hour late due to severe weather warnings, but fans remained in high spirits. The stadium was filled with passionate local supporters, creating an incredible atmosphere. Grey skies loomed overhead as the teams lined up for the national anthems.
Bellingham's First-Half Double
England dominated the first half, with Jude Bellingham scoring twice in quick succession. In the 36th minute, he netted a diving header to open the scoring. Two minutes later, he tapped in from Harry Kane's cross to make it 2-0. England manager Thomas Tuchel was thrilled with the performance.
Mexico responded swiftly, as Julián Quiñones lashed the ball past Jordan Pickford to make it 2-1. Just before half-time, Raúl Jiménez sent a looping header goalwards, but Pickford saved. Bellingham then made a remarkable clearance to deny a certain goal for César Montes.
Red Card and Penalty Drama
In the 54th minute, England's Jarell Quansah received a red card for a dangerous tackle on Jesús Gallardo, reducing England to ten men. Despite the setback, England extended their lead in the 59th minute when Anthony Gordon was felled by goalkeeper Raúl Rangel, earning a penalty. Kane converted, sending the keeper the wrong way to make it 3-1.
However, Kane soon conceded a penalty of his own by fouling Brian Gutiérrez in the box. Jiménez stepped up and fooled Pickford to make it 3-2, setting up a tense finale.
England Hold On
Mexico pushed for an equalizer, but Djed Spence made a vital interception to deny another goalscoring chance. During 11 minutes of injury time, John Stones cleared his lines as England held on desperately. The players fell to the turf exhausted, but Declan Rice celebrated as England progressed.
Anthony Gordon, who had a cracking game, soaked up the applause from the travelling fans as they belted out Wonderwall by Oasis. The match was described as one of the great England World Cup matches, with five goals and endless drama.
