England edged past Mexico national football team 3-2 in a breathless World Cup Round of 16 encounter on 5 July 2026, booking a quarter-final clash with Norway national football team after surviving a second-half red card and sustained pressure in Mexico City.
England national football team took control through a quick-fire double from Jude Bellingham, who opened the scoring in the 36th minute before striking again just two minutes later to stun the co-hosts. Harry Kane then extended the lead in the 60th minute from the penalty spot after England had already been reduced to ten men following Jarell Quansah’s red card in the 54th minute.
Mexico responded with intensity and belief, pulling one back through Julian Quinones before Raul Jimenez converted a penalty in the 69th minute to set up a tense finish. England’s own captain Kane was later involved in conceding a spot-kick after a VAR review, with Jimenez again scoring to keep the contest alive at 3-2.
Despite heavy late pressure and a raucous home crowd, England held firm to preserve their lead and progress to the last eight. The result also ended Mexico’s hopes of reaching a first World Cup quarter-final in 40 years.
Bellingham was named Player of the Match after a decisive display that swung momentum England’s way early on. He also set a new tournament milestone, becoming the youngest player to reach ten World Cup appearances at 23 years and six days.
England manager Thomas Tuchel praised his side’s resilience, saying they showed belief in difficult moments while Mexico coach Javier Aguirre admitted mistakes proved costly at the highest level.
