MEXICO EXIT THE WORLD CUP
England survived a ferocious late fightback from co-hosts Mexico to book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals with a dramatic 3-2 victory at a packed Estadio Azteca.
The Three Lions made a blistering start, with Jude Bellingham taking centre stage. The midfielder struck twice in the space of two minutes, finishing clinically in the 36th and 38th minutes to stun the home crowd. Mexico responded before the breakthrough Julián Quiñones, whose composed finish gave the hosts renewed belief heading into the second half.
Harry Kane restored England’s two-goal cushion from the penalty spot on the hour mark after a foul inside the area. However, the contest swung dramatically when England were reduced to 10 men following Jarell Quansah’s red card.
Raúl Jiménez converted a penalty to make it 3-2 before Johan Vásquez thought he had snatched a dramatic equaliser deep into stoppage time, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside after a lengthy VAR review.
Jordan Pickford produced a string of outstanding saves as England weathered relentless Mexican pressure in the closing stages.
The victory sends Thomas Tuchel’s side into the quarterfinals, where they will face a confident Norway team after one of the most entertaining matches of the tournament so far.
