England secured a dramatic passage to the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Mexico in a pulsating encounter at Mexico City’s iconic Azteca Stadium. The win, described by some as one of England’s greatest ever World Cup results, saw Thomas Tuchel’s side overcome a formidable opponent on their home turf – a venue where Mexico had lost only twice in 89 previous matches – and play the majority of the second half with ten men.
England defy odds in Azteca thriller
The match exploded into life with Jude Bellingham netting a quickfire double for England in the first half. Mexico, however, responded before the break through Julian Quinones, setting up a tense second period. The challenge intensified for England after the restart when Jarell Quansah received a red card, leaving them a man down. Despite the numerical disadvantage, England captain Harry Kane stepped up, converting a penalty after Anthony Gordon was fouled, restoring England’s two-goal cushion. Mexico were not done, though, as Raul Jimenez scored from the spot after Kane conceded a penalty, ensuring a nervy finish.
Kane’s pivotal role and Trump’s unexpected praise
Kane’s influence extended beyond his goal; he also provided a crucial assist for Bellingham’s second strike. The striker, who has now scored six goals in the tournament, is just one behind Golden Boot leaders Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Erling Haaland. His penalty against Mexico also brought his international tally to 85 goals, placing him joint eighth on the all-time list of top international goalscorers. Reflecting on the monumental effort, a hoarse Kane, who was later heard singing “Wonderwall” with fans, told GiveMeSport: “That was a crazy game, we had to fight, we had to find something…I’ve just been singing there I can’t really talk. The occasion, the team, all the things against us… we found a way.”
The England captain’s performance even caught the attention of USA president Donald Trump, who took to Truth Social to declare: “Harry Kane of England is a GREAT player!!!” Trump, who received the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize from Gianni Infantino at the tournament draw, has not attended a match but remains an interested observer.
Read also: Norway army video adds to Brazil shock celebrations: “One of the sickest days”
England’s reward for their historic triumph is a quarter-final clash against Norway. The last-eight encounter is scheduled for Saturday night, with an 8pm UK time kick-off.
Read also: Donald Trump’s "expert lawyers" helped Folarin Balogun win FIFA appeal before USA vs Belgium
