In a thrilling encounter at the Estadio Azteca, ten-man England defeated Mexico 3-2 on June 7, 2026, knocking out the World Cup co-hosts and advancing to the quarter-finals. Jude Bellingham was the star of the match, scoring two goals, while Harry Kane converted a crucial penalty, marking Mexico’s first World Cup defeat at this iconic venue.
Match Highlights: England's Resilience
Despite being reduced to ten players early in the second half, England managed to hold off a determined Mexican side. Bellingham's goals came just 98 seconds apart, and Kane's penalty provided a vital cushion. Mexico fought back valiantly, with Raul Jimenez scoring late in the game, but it wasn't enough to change the outcome.
England's victory was especially significant as it ended Mexico's unbeaten run at the Azteca in World Cup history. The match showcased England's defensive grit and tactical discipline under pressure, as they navigated a hostile environment filled with passionate Mexican fans.
Key Player Performances
England's captain, Kane, reflected on the match, stating, "It was a crazy game. We had to fight and we had to find something." He acknowledged the challenges posed by the Mexican team and the referee's decisions, which included a VAR check that led to the penalty awarded to Mexico.
