Ten-man England battle past co-hosts Mexico in Azteca thriller
England held on to beat Mexico 3-2 in the World Cup round of 16, despite playing with 10 men for most of the second half, to set up a quarter-final with Norway.
England survive Mexican onslaught
Jude Bellingham scored twice and Harry Kane added a penalty as England secured a famous 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. The win sends England to the World Cup quarter-finals for the third consecutive time, where they will face Norway.
Playing in front of a passionate home crowd, England took control in the first half. Bellingham opened the scoring with a diving header from Bukayo Saka's cross, then doubled the lead two minutes later after a break down the right. Mexico pulled one back before halftime through Julian Quinones, who volleyed home from a free-kick scramble.
Red card and fightback
England's task became harder early in the second half when defender Jarell Quansah was sent off for a rash challenge. Despite being a man down, England extended their lead when Anthony Gordon was fouled in the box and Kane calmly scored from the penalty spot. Mexico responded again when Kane conceded a penalty, and Raul Jimenez converted to make it 3-2.
With over 20 minutes remaining, Mexico pushed for an equalizer, but England defended resolutely to hold on. The match was delayed by an hour due to thunderstorms. This was Mexico's first ever World Cup defeat at the Azteca, having lost only two competitive games there since 1966.
