England edge Mexico in dramatic last-16 clash
England booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Mexico, despite playing the final stages with ten men. The match, held on 5 July 2026, saw England take an early lead before surviving a second-half Mexican resurgence.
First-half dominance and early goals
England dominated the opening 45 minutes, with Marcus Rashford opening the scoring in the 18th minute after a swift counter-attack. Jude Bellingham doubled the lead just before half-time, heading home from a corner to give England a comfortable 2-0 advantage at the break.
Mexico fight back, England reduced to ten
Mexico came out stronger in the second half, pressing high and creating chances. Their efforts paid off in the 63rd minute when Hirving Lozano pulled one back with a clinical finish. The momentum shifted further in Mexico's favour when England's Declan Rice was sent off in the 72nd minute for a second yellow card, leaving England with ten men for the final 18 minutes.
England hold on for victory
Despite the numerical disadvantage, England's defence held firm under intense pressure. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made crucial saves, including a stunning stop from a Raúl Jiménez header in the 85th minute. England managed to see out the match and secure a 2-1 win.
Quarter-final clash with Norway
England will now face Norway in the quarter-finals in Miami. Norway advanced after a 3-1 win over Switzerland earlier in the day. According to England manager Gareth Southgate, "It was a tough match, but the character shown by the players was outstanding. We now look forward to the challenge against Norway."
Key statistics and implications
This victory marks England's third consecutive World Cup quarter-final appearance. The match saw a total of 14 shots from England and 12 from Mexico, with England converting two of their four shots on target. The win keeps England's hopes of a first World Cup title since 1966 alive.
