Thomas Tuchel’s England produced their most impressive performance of the World Cup, beating hosts Mexico 3-2 at the Azteca Stadium on Sunday to book a quarter-final meeting with Norway.
The last-16 clash was delayed by an hour due to severe storms before England seized control through two quickfire goals from Jude Bellingham, who struck twice in 98 seconds before halftime.
Mexico pulled one back through Julian Quinones before the break, but England’s task became significantly harder early in the second half when defender, Jarell Quansah was sent off for a high challenge on Jesus Gallardo.
Harry Kane restored England’s two-goal advantage from the penalty spot after Anthony Gordon was fouled by goalkeeper Raul Rangel, before the captain conceded a penalty at the other end, allowing Raul Jimenez to reduce the deficit to 3-2.
Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made a string of crucial saves as England withstood sustained late pressure, while Tuchel switched to a five-man defence to preserve the victory through 11 minutes of stoppage time.
The result ended Mexico’s hopes on home soil and sent England into the last eight, where they will face Norway for a place in the semi-finals.
Oluwagbemisola Babalola
