England delivered their most impressive performance of the World Cup as they overcame Mexico 3-2 in a dramatic battle at the Azteca Stadium to reach the quarter-finals, where they will face Norway.
In one of the tournament’s most intense matches, delayed for an hour because of severe storms, Thomas Tuchel’s team handled the pressure of Mexico’s famous home atmosphere and survived playing most of the second half with 10 men after Jarell Quansah’s red card.
Mexico entered the match having lost only twice in their previous 89 competitive games at the Azteca, but England showed composure from the start. Jude Bellingham produced a world-class display, scoring twice in just 98 seconds before half-time to put his side in control.
The hosts responded with huge pressure, backed by a deafening crowd, but England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made several crucial saves to protect the advantage. He twice denied Raul Jimenez with outstanding stops before Julian Quinones finally beat him with a powerful strike shortly before the break.
The momentum shifted further towards Mexico when Quansah was dismissed early in the second half for a high challenge on Jesus Gallardo. However, England found another breakthrough when Anthony Gordon was brought down by goalkeeper Raul Rangel, allowing Harry Kane to convert from the penalty spot and restore a two-goal lead.
Mexico refused to give up and reduced the deficit again after Kane fouled Brian Gutierrez inside the box, with Jimenez scoring from the resulting penalty.
Under heavy pressure in the closing stages, Tuchel adjusted his approach by introducing Dan Burn and Djed Spence and switching to a five-man defence. England then battled through 11 minutes of stoppage time to secure one of their most memorable victories in recent years.
The result was built on discipline and tactical organisation, with Tuchel’s plan to absorb Mexico’s early intensity proving effective. England’s players showed resilience at more than 7,000ft altitude, standing firm in one of football’s toughest environments.
Bellingham was the star going forward, not only because of his two goals but also thanks to a vital defensive moment when he stopped Cesar Montes with a last-ditch challenge just before half-time.
Pickford also produced one of the best performances of his international career on a historic night for the Everton goalkeeper. Making his 17th World Cup appearance to equal Peter Shilton’s England men’s record, he proved decisive with a series of saves and strong command of his penalty area.
After doubts earlier in the competition, Pickford’s display under extreme pressure confirmed his importance as England continue their pursuit of World Cup glory.