England survived a torrid second half with 10 men to beat Mexico 3-2 in the Estadio Azteca, securing their finest World Cup knockout victory since 1966. Jude Bellingham scored twice and Harry Kane added a penalty, but a red card to Jarell Quansah and a late penalty from Raúl Jiménez made for a nerve-wracking finish.
Bellingham double gives England early control
Jude Bellingham headed England into the lead from Bukayo Saka's cross, then doubled the advantage after Elliot Anderson won the ball high up the pitch. Bellingham ran wide to Kane, who crossed low, and the midfielder's determination beat Érik Lira to the ball.
Mexico pulled one back before half-time through Julián Quiñones, who lashed home from a poorly defended free-kick. César Montes almost equalised on the stroke of half-time, but Bellingham made a saving challenge.
Quansah red card changes the game
Jarell Quansah was sent off in the 54th minute for a high challenge on Jesús Gallardo. The VAR review led to a red card, leaving England to defend for over half an hour with 10 men.
Despite the setback, England extended their lead when Anthony Gordon was fouled by Mexico goalkeeper Raúl Rangel after a loose ball. Harry Kane converted the penalty for 3-1, his sixth goal of the tournament.
Mexico fight back but England hold on
Mexico were awarded a penalty when Kane kicked through Brian Gutiérrez while clearing a set piece. Raúl Jiménez converted coolly to make it 3-2.
Thomas Tuchel switched to a back five, sending on Dan Burn and Djed Spence. England defended deep in a 5-3-1 formation, with Burn immense and Jordan Pickford assured. Mexico kept crossing, but England headed clear. John Stones scrambled a clearance just wide of his own goal in the 11 added minutes, but England held on.
Victory sets up Norway quarter-final
England advance to a quarter-final against Norway in Miami on Saturday. Tuchel called the win a potential ignition point for his side's World Cup campaign.
