England captain Harry Kane lauded his teammates' determination after the Three Lions defeated co-hosts Mexico 3-2 in a dramatic FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash, securing a place in the quarterfinals. "It doesn't get much better than that! Guts and courage from every single member of this squad. Proud of this team!" Kane wrote on X.
Kane's Decisive Penalty and Milestone
Kane played a key role in England's thrilling victory, converting a second-half penalty after Anthony Gordon was fouled inside the box. The goal was Kane's sixth of the tournament, helping England advance. Kane has now scored six goals at a major international tournament for the second time, matching his 2018 World Cup tally and following Gary Lineker's six-goal campaign in 1986. According to The Athletic, Kane also became the outright record-holder for the most World Cup penalty goals in regulation time, with six, two more than any other player.
Bellingham's Record and Player of the Match
Jude Bellingham became the youngest player to make 10 FIFA World Cup appearances, 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 for his performance.
England's Quarterfinal History
England have secured a place in the World Cup quarterfinals for the 11th time, with only Brazil (15) and Germany (14) having reached the last eight more often in the tournament's history, according to The Athletic.
Saka's Assist Milestone
Bukayo Saka reached a notable milestone, becoming only the third England player since 1966 to register three assists in a single FIFA World Cup, joining David Beckham (2002) and Harry Kane (2022).
Kane's Remarkable Season
Kane continued his remarkable form against Mexico, registering a goal and an assist to take his tally to 81 goal involvements in 63 appearances for club and country across all competitions during the 2025-26 season (73 goals and eight assists). 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.
