England edge past Mexico in thrilling Round of 16 clash
England held off a spirited Mexico side to secure a 3-2 victory in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City on July 5. Despite playing with 10 men for over half an hour, the Three Lions booked their place in the quarterfinals for the third consecutive World Cup.
Bellingham double puts England in control
Jude Bellingham was the star of the first half, scoring twice in quick succession. His first goal came in the 36th minute, followed by another in the 38th, giving England a commanding 2-0 lead. However, Mexico pulled one back just before halftime through Julian Quinones in the 42nd minute, reigniting the home crowd's hopes.
Red card and VAR drama
The match took a dramatic turn in the 54th minute when England defender Jarell Quansah was shown a straight red card after a VAR review for a challenge on Jesus Gallardo. According to ESPN, Quansah became the fourth England player to be sent off at a World Cup, following Ray Wilkins (1986), David Beckham (1998), and Wayne Rooney (2006). England manager Thomas Tuchel responded by substituting Bukayo Saka for John Stones to shore up the defense.
Kane penalty extends lead
Despite being a man down, England extended their lead in the 60th minute. Anthony Gordon was fouled in the box by Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel, and Harry Kane stepped up to convert the penalty, making it 3-1. Mexico continued to fight and were awarded a penalty of their own in the 69th minute, which Raul Jimenez scored to reduce the deficit to 3-2.
Mexico's comeback falls short
Mexico pressed for an equalizer but could not break down a resilient England defense. According to ESPN, Mexico have now exited the World Cup at the Round of 16 stage eight times since reaching the quarterfinals in 1986. The only other time they advanced past the last 16 was when they hosted the tournament in 1970.
England to face Norway in quarterfinals
England will now face Norway, led by Erling Haaland, in Miami Gardens on Saturday for a place in the semifinals. England are still chasing their first World Cup title since 1966.
