Ten-man England overcame a fierce challenge from co-host Mexico at the Azteca Stadium on July 6, 2026, securing a 3-2 win to reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the third straight time. Jude Bellingham scored twice, including a superb diving header, and Harry Kane converted a penalty to seal the victory.
The match was delayed by an hour due to thunderstorms, after which Mexico launched an intense attack supported by their passionate fans who raised the stadium's decibel levels. Despite this, England held firm, demonstrating both attacking verve and defensive grit.
Mexico, who had beaten Ecuador 2-0 in the last 32 for their first knockout-stage win in 40 years, had only lost two competitive games at the Azteca in 89 matches since 1966. England's win marked the third such defeat at this iconic venue.
Early in the game, Mexico's Raul Jimenez had a notable chance with a diving header saved brilliantly by England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. England took the lead just after the half-hour mark through Bellingham's header from Bukayo Saka's cross and extended it to 2-0 two minutes later with an assist from captain Harry Kane.
Mexico responded with chants of "Yes we can," and winger Julian Quinones volleyed a goal inside the box following a free kick scramble to bring the hosts back into the contest.
Shortly after the break, England nearly increased their lead when Nico O'Reilly hit the post. However, the team was soon reduced to ten men after defender Jarell Quansah was sent off for a rash sliding challenge with a high foot on Jesus Gallardo.
This match marked England's first visit to the Azteca Stadium since their 1986 World Cup quarter-final loss to Argentina, a game remembered for Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" goal.
England will face Norway in the quarter-finals, who earlier shocked Brazil 2-1.
Quotes from the match highlighted the resilience and mentality of the teams: "We had to fight. We had to find something. I can't really talk. Yeah, the occasion, the team, everything against us. We found a way," and "When the going gets tough, they never give up, they never lose belief. It was one step more."
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