In one of the most dramatic matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, England defeated Mexico 3-2 at the legendary Estadio Azteca on Sunday, advancing to the quarterfinals despite playing nearly half the match with 10 men. Jude Bellingham was the star of the show, scoring twice in two minutes to turn the tide before Harry Kane added a crucial penalty.

Bellingham's Historic Brace Changes Everything

Mexico dominated the early proceedings in front of 87,000 passionate fans at the Azteca, but it was England who struck first. In the 36th minute, Bellingham collected the ball on the edge of the box and unleashed a curling shot that beat Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa at the far post. Just two minutes later, he did it again—this time finishing a swift counter-attack to make it 2-0 and silence the home crowd.

At just 23 years and six days old, Bellingham became the youngest player ever to make 10 World Cup appearances, breaking the record held by Argentina legend Mario Kempes since 1978. His brace showcased the clinical finishing that has made him one of the world's most valuable players.

Mexico Fights Back as England Goes Down to 10 Men

Just before halftime, Mexico pulled one back through Jesús Quiñones in the 42nd minute, giving El Tri hope heading into the break. The match took another dramatic turn in the 54th minute when England defender Jarell Quansah received a straight red card, leaving the Three Lions to defend their lead with 10 men for the remaining 36 minutes plus stoppage time.

Harry Kane extended England's lead from the penalty spot in the 60th minute, but Mexico refused to give up. Raúl Jiménez converted his own penalty in the 69th minute to make it 3-2 and set up a tense finale.

England Survives the Azteca Cauldron

The final 20 minutes were a test of England's resilience and defensive organization. Mexico threw everything at the 10-man English side, but goalkeeper Jordan Pickford and the defense held firm. The Azteca, one of the most hostile environments in world football, lived up to its fearsome reputation, but England's determination proved stronger.

The victory marks England's first competitive win in Mexico and a significant psychological boost as they continue their quest for a first World Cup title since 1966.

What's Next for England

England will face either Germany or South Korea in the quarterfinals as the tournament moves into its decisive stage. Manager Thomas Tuchel will need to adjust his lineup following Quansah's suspension, but the performances of Bellingham and Kane suggest the Three Lions have the quality to go deep in this tournament.

For Mexico, the defeat ends their home World Cup dream in heartbreaking fashion. Despite the passionate support of their fans, El Tri couldn't overcome England's quality and will now watch from the sidelines as the tournament continues without them.

The World Cup quarterfinals continue next week as the eight remaining teams battle for a place in the semifinals. England's reward for surviving the Azteca is another knockout match against top-tier opposition, but on the evidence of this performance, Tuchel's side will fear no one.