Trump Hails Kane After England's Thrilling Victory
United States President Donald Trump praised England captain Harry Kane following the striker's performance in England's FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 victory over Mexico. In a post on Truth Social, Trump described the Bayern Munich striker as a 'great player.'
Kane's Key Role in England's Win
Kane played a crucial role in England's 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico, converting a second-half penalty after Anthony Gordon was fouled inside the box. The goal was Kane's sixth of the tournament, helping England secure a place in the World Cup quarter-finals. According to OptaJoe, Kane also became the first player on record since 1966 to both score a penalty and concede a penalty in the same FIFA World Cup match.
Kane's Remarkable Season Statistics
Kane continued his remarkable form against Mexico, registering a goal and an assist. This took his tally to 81 goal involvements in 63 appearances for club and country across all competitions during the 2025-26 season, comprising 73 goals and eight assists.
Bellingham Sets Record
According to FIFA, Jude Bellingham became the youngest player to make 10 FIFA World Cup appearances at 23 years and six days, surpassing the previous record held by Argentina's Mario Kempes (23 years and 334 days against Poland in 1978). Bellingham was also named Player of the Match after scoring twice in the first half.
England's Gritty Performance
England advanced despite playing much of the second half with 10 men after defender Jarell Quansah was sent off in the 54th minute. Mexico, spurred on by a passionate home crowd, mounted a spirited comeback in pursuit of their first World Cup quarter-final appearance in four decades, but England held on to secure victory.
Match Details
Mexico controlled possession early before England struck twice through Bellingham. He first headed home from Bukayo Saka's cross, then doubled the lead after Kane capitalized on a Mexican turnover and set him up. The hosts responded before halftime when Julian Quinones fired past Jordan Pickford from close range, and Pickford made an outstanding save to deny Raul Jimenez an equalizer. After the restart, Nico O'Reilly hit the post for England before Quansah received a straight red card for a challenge on Jesus Gallardo. Despite being down to 10 players, England restored their two-goal cushion when Gordon was fouled by Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel, allowing Kane to convert from the spot. Mexico were awarded a penalty after a VAR review adjudged Kane to have fouled Brian Gutierrez, and Jimenez converted to make it 3-2. Mexico pushed for an equalizer, but England defended resolutely to seal a quarter-final place against Norway in Miami on July 11.
