England national football team produced a determined fightback to defeat Mexico national football team 3-2 and book a place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Round of 16 match was filled with drama as England played much of the second half with 10 players.
Mexico started the game strongly and controlled possession during the opening stages. However, England took advantage of their chances and quickly gained control of the match.
Jude Bellingham opened the scoring in the 36th minute. He headed the ball into the net after receiving a precise cross from Bukayo Saka.
Only a few minutes later, Bellingham struck again. Harry Kane set him up after Mexico lost possession, allowing the midfielder to double England’s lead.
Mexico responded before the halftime whistle. Julián Quiñones scored from close range to reduce the deficit to 2-1.
England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford then made an important save. He denied Raúl Jiménez an equaliser before the teams headed into the break.
The second half became even more challenging for England. Defender Jarell Quansah received a red card after a challenge on Jesús Gallardo.
Despite being reduced to 10 men, England showed great determination. Their fightback continued as they earned a penalty after Mexico goalkeeper Raúl Rangel fouled Anthony Gordon inside the penalty area.
Harry Kane calmly converted the spot-kick to restore England’s two-goal advantage. The goal was his sixth of the tournament and gave England a valuable cushion.
Mexico refused to give up and continued attacking. A Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review later ruled that Kane had fouled Brian Gutiérrez inside the box.
The referee awarded Mexico a penalty. Raúl Jiménez converted the chance to make the score 3-2 and set up a tense finish.
The co-hosts pushed forward in search of another goal during the closing stages. England’s defence remained organised under heavy pressure and prevented Mexico from finding an equaliser.
The disciplined defensive display completed England’s fightback and secured a place in the last eight of the tournament. The result ended Mexico’s World Cup campaign despite a spirited performance in front of their home supporters.
England will now face Norway national football team in the quarter-finals on July 11 in Miami. Norway reached the next round after eliminating Brazil national football team.
The victory keeps England’s World Cup hopes alive and highlights the team’s resilience. Their fightback, combined with clinical finishing and determined defending, proved enough to overcome a difficult challenge and secure a place in the quarter-finals.
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