MEXICO CITY: England survived a fierce second-half comeback from co-hosts Mexico to claim a dramatic 3-2 win at the Estadio Azteca on Sunday and reach the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals.
Jude Bellingham scored twice and Harry Kane converted from the penalty spot as England built a commanding lead before the match turned into a tense contest following a second-half red card.
Gareth Southgate’s side appeared in control for much of the game, using quick passing, clinical finishing and disciplined defending to silence a passionate Mexican crowd of more than 80,000.
However, the momentum shifted after England were reduced to 10 men. Mexico took advantage of the extra player, scoring twice and applying relentless pressure in the closing stages.
El Tri pushed hard for an equaliser, backed by a roaring home crowd, but England defended deep and held firm through a nerve-racking finish to secure one of their most important knockout victories in recent World Cup history.
The result sends England into the last eight, where they will face Norway, who stunned five-time champions Brazil 2-1 earlier in the round.
Mexico’s defeat ended an inspiring campaign on home soil, although their late resistance drew praise from supporters.
England, still chasing their first World Cup title since 1966, remain alive in a tournament where several major teams have already been eliminated.
