England midfielder Jude Bellingham described the team's 3-2 victory over Mexico in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 as "spectacular" and expressed his dream of being part of the England squad, according to Sky Sports Football. Bellingham scored twice, while Harry Kane added a penalty, helping England secure a quarter-final berth despite playing with 10 men for much of the second half.
Bellingham's standout performance
Bellingham, aged 23 years and six days, became the youngest player to reach 10 FIFA World Cup appearances, surpassing the previous record held by Argentina's Mario Kempes (23 years, 334 days). His brace and overall display earned him the Player of the Match award. In a video posted by Sky Sports Football, Bellingham said he imagines fans across England celebrating together and described being part of the squad as a dream. "I can imagine it's carnage, but in a happy way, positive. Everyone no matter where you're from, I can imagine everyone's together. That's the thing I dream of being a part of this England squad, bringing my country together, giving them nights like this that they'll enjoy hopefully for many years to come," Bellingham said.
Match summary
England struck twice in quick succession through Bellingham, who first headed home from Bukayo Saka's cross and then doubled the lead after Harry Kane capitalised on a Mexican turnover. Mexico responded before halftime when Julian Quinones fired past Jordan Pickford from close range. Pickford produced an outstanding save to deny Raul Jimenez an equaliser before the break. In the second half, England's Nico O'Reilly hit the post before defender Jarell Quansah received a straight red card in the 54th minute for a challenge on Jesus Gallardo. Despite being reduced to 10 players, England restored their two-goal cushion when Anthony Gordon was fouled by Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel, allowing Kane to convert from the spot for his sixth goal of the tournament. Mexico were awarded a penalty after a VAR review adjudged Kane to have fouled Brian Gutierrez, with Jimenez converting to make it 3-2. Mexico pushed for an equaliser, but England held on to seal a place in the quarter-finals, where they will face Norway in Miami on July 11.
