England survived a spirited Mexico fightback to secure a 3-2 win on Sunday (5 July) ​and book their place in the World Cup ‌quarter-finals, ending the co-hosts' deepest run at the tournament in 40 years despite playing most of the second ​half with 10 men at the Azteca ​Stadium.

Jude Bellingham put England ahead, striking twice ⁠in the space of a minute, finishing a ​Bukayo Saka cross before tapping in Harry Kane's ​pass to stun the home crowd.

Mexico's Julian Quinones pulled one back before halftime, reacting quickest to a loose ball ​in the box to fire into the roof ​of the net and revive the co-hosts' hopes.

England were reduced ‌to ⁠10 men in the second half after Jarrell Quansah was sent off following a VAR review, but Harry Kane restored England's two-goal lead with ​a penalty ​after goalkeeper ⁠Raul Rangel fouled Anthony Gordon.

Mexico's Raul Jimenez reduced the deficit with another penalty ​after a VAR review confirmed a ​foul ⁠from Kane on Brian Gutierrez.

The match had been delayed by one hour due to adverse weather conditions around ⁠the ​Azteca Stadium.

England will face Norway ​in the last eight in Miami on Saturday.

 

FIFA World Cup 2026 / England / Mexico

While most comments will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive, moderation decisions are subjective. Published comments are readers’ own views and The Business Standard does not endorse any of the readers’ comments.

Copyright © 2026 THE BUSINESS STANDARD
All rights reserved.