Wayne Rooney has criticised England's jubilant celebrations after their dramatic 3-2 victory over Mexico in the World Cup round of 16, stating it is 'a bit too soon' to be partying. The former Manchester United and England captain expressed his discomfort while watching the dressing room footage on BBC's coverage of Spain's win over Portugal.
Rooney's Old-School Stance
Speaking as a pundit, Rooney said: 'I'm a bit more old school. After you win anything… I know you've got to enjoy it but I think it's a bit too soon.' His comments came after England booked their place in the quarter-finals at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, with a 3-2 win described as one of the Three Lions' finest in World Cup history.
The match saw Jude Bellingham give England a 2-0 lead, only for Julian Quinones to pull one back before half-time. Jarell Quansah received a red card early in the second half, but a Harry Kane penalty re-established a two-goal lead. However, Kane then conceded a penalty, which Raul Jimenez converted, setting up a tense final half-hour that England survived.
Tuchel Defends Celebrations
England boss Thomas Tuchel defended the celebrations, saying the win felt like a final. 'I'm so happy with the players, and also for me, to live this experience in the last two days. Such a special memory, and against all the adversity it makes it very special for us,' he said. 'If a team has heart and belief then it's this team. They did it on pure will. No words. Iconic match, iconic stadium, we overcame so much adversity today.'
The celebrations, however, came at a cost: Jordan Henderson was ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to an injury sustained during the post-match party.
Azpilicueta's Balanced View
Former Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta, also on BBC punditry, offered a contrasting perspective: 'As a player, when you have had these kinds of games against a host, this atmosphere, you have to enjoy it. Life is about balance, football is about balance, it's time to enjoy it. Now they will recover and be ready for another game.'
England now face Norway in the quarter-finals in Miami on Saturday, with a more generous turnaround than Spain and Belgium, who play each other on Friday after their last-16 wins on Monday.
